Jose Flores seeks Guinness World Record as 119-year-old

Jose Flores, a resident of Sardinal in Costa Rica, is seeking recognition from Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living man. According to his identification documents, Flores was born on July 11, 1907, which would make him 119 years old.

Flores lives on the Nicoya Peninsula, a recognized ‘Blue Zone’ known for high concentrations of centenarians. Local experts attribute the region's longevity to diets rich in corn and beans, mineral-rich water, physical activity, and strong social and family ties. Flores has a large family, including eight children, 23 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

While the family has provided birth and baptismal certificates to support his age, the official verification process by international organizations can take several years. If confirmed, Flores would surpass the current record holder, Brazilian farmer João Marinho Neto, who was verified as 113 years old.