MANILA, Philippines — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. staged an unusual public display Monday, performing jumping jacks and a brief jog outside his Manila office to silence persistent speculation about his physical condition.
The 68-year-old commander-in-chief, dressed in business attire complete with reading glasses and leather shoes, conducted the spontaneous fitness demonstration before assembled reporters to address concerns about his wellbeing during a period when citizens face challenges from Middle Eastern conflicts.
“I challenge anyone who are saying that I am sick, that they come and exercise with me,” Marcos declared to the media. “You come to the gym with me. Let’s see who can lift the weights better.”
“Those people who tell you that I’m sick, that I’m paralyzed, they’re all liars,” Marcos stated firmly.
Speculation regarding the president’s physical condition and even false reports of his death have circulated across social media platforms following his temporary absence from public appearances in January. He later revealed through a video statement that medical professionals had treated him for an abdominal condition he attributed to stress and advancing age.
The Philippine leader dismissed reports of his death with laughter and disclosed his diagnosis of diverticulitis, a medical condition characterized by inflamed pouches within the digestive system, typically affecting the colon and causing symptoms including pain, elevated temperature, nausea, and digestive issues.
According to Marcos, his most recent medical examination several months ago confirmed his recovery from the condition. He reported returning to his regular eating habits and maintaining a consistent exercise routine.
Regarding ongoing medical treatment, the president acknowledged taking prescribed medications for gout and elevated blood pressure.
Throughout his presidency beginning in mid-2022, Marcos has confronted numerous challenging situations and political complications.
These obstacles encompass escalating territorial tensions with China over South China Sea disputes, destructive natural disasters including earthquakes, typhoons, and floods, economic pressures, strained relationships with his vice president, and a corruption investigation involving influential lawmakers and political associates that has generated public anger.
