Filipino Junrey Balawing, who is the size of a 1-year-old toddler, has been officially crowned the smallest man in the world by Guinness World Records on his 18th birthday.
Junrey takes over the title from previous record holder, Khagendra Thapa Magar of Nepal, who stands at 67 centimetres. Junrey stopped growing before he turned 2-years old.
He suffers from a series of medical conditions, has a child's demeanour and can only walk with some help, finding it too painful to stand for long periods of time because of his weak knees.
Junrey was crowned in his hometown of Sindangan in the southern Philippines, with his parents present and approximately 100 villagers and officials showering the coastal town's newly famous resident with a feast, cake, balloons and cash gifts.
Junrey's mother Concepcion grew teary-eyed during the ceremony. His father Reynaldo said they were happy about their son being named the smallest living man. Their other son and two daughters are all of an average size.
'Thank you,' Junrey told the crowd in a local dialect which was translated by his father.
Junrey blew out the candles on the cake and clapped heartily each time the crowd applauded. He was later heard saying 'Kapoy', or 'I'm tired'.
Guinness World Records representative Craig Glenday said he was struck by Junrey's lively personality and constant smile. He said: 'Although he's short, he takes that in stride. He has this cheeky smile.'
Aside from a Guinness certificate, the crown does not come with any cash award.
Mr Glenday said he hopes the international fame will bring in gifts and donations, particularly medical supplies to ensure Balawing's health.
His family said they tried to send Balawing to school but it withdrew him after he distracted other children's attention.
Local officials got the idea of informing the Guinness records committee about Balawing from journalists who learned about his size.
