Valentin Untalan, the oldest known living man in the Philippines, passed away today in the village of Barangay Doyong in the municipality of Calasiao, Pangasinan, at the age of 109 years, 261 days.
Valentin Mamanta Untalan Sr. was born on 3 November 1916
During World War II, he served as a member of the Philippine Scouts and was among the thousands of prisoners forced to endure the Bataan Death March. Along the way, he attempted to escape four times before finally succeeding. He then made the arduous journey from Bataan back to his home in Pangasinan Province. Later, he became a U.S. citizen and served multiple tours of duty with the U.S. Army in Europe, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam before retiring and returning to live in the Philippines.
At the age of 109, he was reported to be in generally good health for his age. He took vitamins and medication to manage his blood pressure and followed a simple diet that emphasized vegetables while limiting his intake of rice and meat to small portions. He was fluent in English, Pangasinan, and Tagalog, and also spoke some Ilocano.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Valentine Untalan during this difficult time.
