Palace to comply with ruling on Marcos health petition

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang yesterday vowed to comply with the Supreme Court’s order for President Marcos to respond to a petition seeking the disclosure of the results of his medical test.

“If that is the order of the Supreme Court, it would be done. A comment will be issued,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at a press briefing.

The high court’s order stemmed from an April 15 petition filed by former House speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and three other persons against Marcos and Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.

The petitioners urged the Supreme Court to direct Marcos to submit himself to physical and mental examination, including a hair follicle drug test, and to publish the results of the medical report. They are also seeking confirmation of the President’s physical and medical fitness to discharge his duties.

The high court directed Marcos and Recto to comment on the petition within 10 days from receipt of notice.

Rumors had circulated that Marcos is suffering from a serious illness, but officials have dismissed them as “fake news.” Earlier this month, Marcos branded as “liars” those claiming that he is critically ill.