Marcos lifts sack of rice to dispel health rumors anew

MANILA, Philippines — So who’s sick – sino ang may sakit?

President Marcos was heard asking the question yesterday as he repeatedly lifted rice sacks during an aid distribution event in Manila, in another effort to quash rumors that he is seriously ill.

The 68-year-old leader handed 10-kilogram rice sacks to workers of the capital city, flexing not just the government’s food security efforts, but also his capability to carry objects with substantial weight.

He drew cheers after lifting rice bags above his head during the event, which formed part of the administration’s efforts to ease the impact of rising oil costs caused by the Middle East conflict.

“We know that if oil prices increase, the price hikes would be simultaneous, especially the price of food. We are monitoring it carefully so that the impact will not be that burdensome to the people,” the President said in impromptu remarks delivered at SM Manila.

“We cannot do anything about the price of oil. But we can do something with regard to the price of food.”

Marcos turned rice sacks into dumbbells days after jogging and doing some jumping jacks in front of the media at Malacañang to prove that he is physically fit.

During a hastily called press conference last Monday, the President described as “liars” those who are claiming that he is in critical condition and is no longer fit to govern.

“Now you know who the liars are and who is telling the truth. And once again, I think it’s very easy and very clear that I’m in very, very good health,” Marcos said.

Yesterday’s rice distribution formed part of the “Biyayang Bigas para sa Maynila” program, which will provide about 80,000 beneficiaries with 10 kilograms of rice six times a year. The initiative is implemented through the P286-million released by Marcos’ office to Manila through the Financial Assistance to Local Government Units program. The national government has released almost P15 billion for the program as of yesterday as part of efforts to address the effects of the oil price shocks.

“We will continue this. We hope this will help our countrymen. I hope my dream that no more Filipino will go hungry by the time I step down as president will be realized,” Marcos said.