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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Palace to comply with Supreme Court order on Marcos health petition

Palace to comply with Supreme Court order on Marcos health petition

Published Apr 23, 2026 01:33 pm
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Mark Balmores/ MANILA BULLETIN)
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Mark Balmores/ MANILA BULLETIN)

Malacañang said it will comply with the directive of the Supreme Court requiring President Marcos to comment on a petition seeking the disclosure of his medical examination report.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said this after the Supreme Court directed Marcos to respond within 10 days to a petition seeking to compel him to undergo physical and mental health examinations.

In her press briefing on Thursday, April 23, Castro said the Palace will follow the High Court’s order.

“Kung utos po ng Supreme Court iyan ay gagampanan po, gagawa po ng comment (If that is the order of the Supreme Court, we will comply and submit a comment),” she said.

The petitioners are asking the Court to require the President to undergo examinations, including a hair follicle test to determine possible long-term illegal drug use.

They argued that the President’s health is a matter of public concern, especially amid a declared national emergency.

The petition invoked Section 12, Article VII of the Constitution, which provides for public disclosure of the President’s health in case of serious illness.

It also cited the people’s right to information under Section 7, Article III.

Petitioners claimed there have been “disturbing” observations about the President’s public appearances, including alleged slurred speech and signs of physical weakness.

They also pointed to unverified reports of hospitalization and the absence of official medical bulletins.

The petition further referenced previous remarks made by Senator Imee Marcos regarding alleged past drug use by the President.

According to the petitioners, these statements warrant clarification from Malacañang.

The President and the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) have repeatedly denied claims regarding his supposed deteriorating health.

Malacañang has maintained that the President remains fit to perform his duties.

Last week, Castro said there was no need for President Marcos to release his medical records or undergo tests, citing a Supreme Court ruling stating that a president cannot be compelled to disclose medical records without a sufficient basis.

Related Tags

President Marcos Bongbong Marcos Claire Castro Supreme Court medical records PETITION
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