Malacañang on Monday moved to end speculation over President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s health, stressing that the 68-year-old leader has resumed his duties and dismissing reports of surgery as false.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that Marcos was already back in Malacañang, attending meetings and returning to his regular schedule.
“At present, the President is in a meeting,” Castro said, emphasizing that the Chief Executive remained actively engaged in governance.
Marcos was hospitalized on January 21 after experiencing discomfort and was later diagnosed with diverticulitis, an inflammation of small pouches in the colon. He assured the public that his condition was not life-threatening and that there was no cause for alarm.
Castro categorically denied circulating claims that Marcos would undergo or had undergone surgery, branding them as “fake news.”
With several public engagements canceled last week, questions arose about his reappearance. Castro noted that updates or images from his meetings would likely be released to show he was in good condition.
Asked if the President was “back to normal,” Castro affirmed, citing his attendance at scheduled Palace meetings.
Malacañang earlier announced that Marcos was set to meet with the Economy and Development Council, reinforcing that he has fully resumed his responsibilities.