Oldest Man Turns 115 in Puerto Rico

Oldest Man Turns 115 in Puerto Rico
Aug 22nd - 6:44am
By FRANK GAUD Associated Press Writer

ISABELA, Puerto Rico (AP) - The world's oldest man celebrated his 115th birthday Monday, offering advice on healthy living at a party where he was serenaded by a well-known Puerto Rican singer.

Emiliano Mercado del Toro, who was a 6-year-old boy when the U.S. seized Puerto Rico from Spain in 1898, attributed his longevity to a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol.

"I never damaged my body with liquor," said Mercado, who quit a 76-year smoking habit when he was 90.

Mercado is listed as the world's oldest man by the Guinness Book of World Records. The world's oldest woman is Maria Esther de Capovilla of Ecuador, who turns 117 on Sept. 14.

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