Valentine Untalan, the oldest living Pangasinense and a World War II veteran, marked his 108th birthday on November 3, 2024 at his home in Barangay Doyong, Calasiao, Pangasinan.
Born in 1916, he is not only the oldest centenarian in Pangasinan but also one of the five oldest in the entire Ilocos region.
A retired U.S. Army serviceman, Lolo Valentine served for over three decades and saw action multiple times during World War II.
He was also blessed with a family of seven children and 20 grandchildren, including great-grandchildren.
While he can no longer walk and his hearing is weak, his eyesight remains sharp.
To an extent, he can still exercise, which he believes is key to his long life.
"I don’t eat too much meat. If possible, shrimp... you don’t drink too much wine," Untalan shared about his diet.
His family showers him with love and care, hoping he enjoys many more years of good health.
"Ang ipinakakain ko sa umaga, oatmeal, hot cake, prutas," Tessie Untalan-Dela Cruz, his daughter, said.
"Andito kaming lahat sa iyo, nagmamahal. Sana magpalakas ka, araw-araw, laki," Baby Jane Untalan, his granddaughter, added.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) honored his resilience in a social media post.
They also wished him continued happiness and good health for the years ahead.