Hontiveros urges release of Duterte’s medical bulletin

October 28, 2019

Senator Risa Hontiveros on Monday slammed Malacanang's decision to withhold the current health condition of President Rodrigo Duterte. 

Hontiveros told the reporters Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo still lacks transparency for not releasing Duterte's health information. 

"What's so special about the President of our Republic? Other heads of state in other countries publicize information regarding their health condition," the senator contested. 

"In effect it is of public interest, it is even of national interest. Knowing the condition of our head of state involves our national security," she added. 

She said she supports the call to release Duterte's medical bulletin. 

On October 25, Panelo in a statement said a bulletin will not be released, explaining that Duterte is not in a serious condition. This is after he developed back spasms a few days after Duterte had a minor accident while riding his motorcycle.

  This led to Duterte cutting short his visit to Japan where he attended the enthronement ceremony of Emperor Naruhito. Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS