MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte lost his balance during an Independence Day event last Saturday due to a "simple misstep," not because of an illness, Malacañang said yesterday.
The 76-year-old leader lost his balance while on a platform during the celebration of the 123rd anniversary of the Philippines' independence in Malolos, Bulacan. The president regained his balance with the help of military chief Gen. Cirilito Sobejana.
"It was a simple misstep. It was clear in the video that the President was turning on a podium, some kind of a podium and he was slightly out-of-balance," presidential spokesman Harry Roque said at a press briefing.
Before his speech, President Duterte lost his balance as he stepped on a small platform, but was unhurt. He regained his balance with the help of AFP chief Gen. Sobejana and Historical Commission’s Rene Escalante. | @xtinamen pic.twitter.com/bAnzQ9iG38
— The Philippine Star (@PhilippineStar) June 13, 2021
"There is no problem with his health," he added.
Duterte had admitted to suffering from various illnesses including Barrett’s esophagus, acute bronchitis, a migraine linked to a spinal injury he sustained in a motorcycle mishap, Buerger’s disease, and muscle spasms. However, officials claim that the president remains healthy and capable of performing his functions.
Last April, the tough-talking leader advised his critics to "pray harder" if they want him to die soon.