So it’s OFFICIAL. A fellow Mindanaoan is now the world’s shortest man. Declared by the officials of the Guinness Book of World Records as the new “world’s shortest living man,” Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte resident Junrey Balawing celebrated his 18th birthday last June 12, 2011 (a day before the Philippine Independence Day). The Guinness people officially measured the Zamboangueno, however, on the eve of his birthday at Sindangan Health Center, Sindangan township, Zamboanga Del Norte, Mindanao. That makes Junrey Balawing not only the world’s shortest living man today but the world’s shortest living man in history as well!
Guess what Balawing’s measurements were? The Zamboanga native was measured at 24 and 1/4 inches (about 61 centimeters) lying down and about two inches shorter than the current record holder Khagendra Thapa Magar of Nepal.
No monetary prize will be given to Balawing, unfortunately. However, I hope that because of his new found fame, more people will be generous enough to send in donations for his food and medical care.
By the way, Balawing is the eldest of 4. His two sisters and brother are all average size.
* photo from seattlepi.com
Related Images:
Mindanaoan is a multi-awarded blogger, content creator, seasoned social media strategist and publicist with undeniably successful track record. 2012 International Visitor Leadership Program (for global leaders) alumnus and O visa grantee (for people with extraordinary skills and who have risen to the top of their field). Avid traveler and a proud relief operations volunteer. Regular resource person for social media, blogging and content creation. Available for work and travel – [email protected]
