By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday brushed off persistent rumors about his health, even demonstrating his physical fitness in front of the media to dispel what he described as “lies” circulating on social media.
Before delivering a statement, the President performed jumping jacks and later took a brisk walk, breaking into a jog, from the New Executive Building back to Malacañang Palace.
“Kalokohan na ‘yan… tiniyak ko na makita ninyo na hindi totoo ‘yung mga sinasabi nila, na kasinungalingan ‘yan (That’s nonsense… I wanted you to see that what they are saying is not true, those are lies),” Marcos said.
He also challenged those spreading claims about his health.
“And I challenge anyone who are saying that I am sick, that they come and exercise with me. We will see who is stronger,” he said.
The President assured the public that he remains in “very, very good health,” citing recent medical checkups.
“I just had my regular blood test… and I’m fine. I’m really quite fine,” he said.
Marcos added that his last hospital visit was around three months ago for a follow-up CT scan on his previous diverticulitis condition, which he said has already been resolved.
“I haven’t been to the hospital for three months… it was just to have a CT scan… and it was [cleared] and I’m done,” he said.
He also disclosed that he only takes maintenance medication for gout and hypertension.
The President noted that he continues to exercise regularly.
“My exercise is back to normal. I still exercise three to four times a week,” he said.
Malacañang has repeatedly denied claims about the President’s supposed illness, which have circulated online in recent weeks and were earlier flagged by the Presidential Communications Office as part of a coordinated disinformation campaign.
The Palace said it is gathering evidence to pursue legal action against those behind the spread of false information.
Despite the issue, Marcos emphasized he remains focused on governance, particularly addressing the ongoing energy crisis and its impact on Filipino households. (PNA)
