Malacañang on Tuesday downplayed concerns about former President Rodrigo Duterte’s health, saying he remains in good condition despite reports that he appears much thinner than before.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro addressed the issue during a press briefing, following Elizabeth Zimmerman’s remarks describing her former husband as “buto’t balat” or extremely thin.
“Yes, she said he lost weight. But according to her, he looks healthy and he’s okay,” Castro said. She added that the former president himself reportedly assured his family, saying: “You go home, I’m fine, I’m okay.”
Castro also noted that Duterte is no longer on maintenance medication. “He’s not taking any medicine anymore, which is good for him,” she said.
She emphasized there is currently no cause for concern, especially as Duterte is under the care of specialists in The Hague.
“For now, since his family said he’s okay, perhaps what he needs is just regular exercise,” Castro added.
