President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lifted a sack of rice “like a barbell” before distributing it during the Biyayang Bigas para sa Maynila program on Thursday morning, April 16.
The gesture was seen as a show of vitality, countering circulating claims that the President was weak or gravely ill.
Marcos was joined by Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso and Vice Mayor Chi Atienza in handing out rice sacks to residents at a mall in Manila.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the program is funded by the Office of the President through the Financial Assistance to Local Government Units (FALGU), amounting to ₱286 million.
It aims to provide rice subsidies to workers and vulnerable families in Manila, delivering immediate food relief to approximately 80,000 families and supporting transport and service sector workers for six months.
“It also aims to strengthen demand for locally sourced rice, reinforcing the Administration’s commitment to easing economic pressure and uplifting Filipino farmers,” the PCO said.
The event follows recent public appearances where Marcos performed jumping jacks and jogging in front of media to dispel rumors about his health. Malacañang has firmly denied reports of illness and warned of legal action against those spreading false information.