MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte made his first appearance on Tuesday after a weeklong absence from the public eye. Duterte welcomed Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines Vasin Ruangprateepsaeng in Malacañang during his presentation of credentials. ADVERTISEMENTSpeculations surfaced that Duterte was seriously ill after he was out of the public eye for a week. Duterte was last seen in public on May 13 when he cast his vote in Davao City. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte was “strong” and “upbeat.”READ: Palace says Duterte ‘strong, upbeat’, not seriously illDuterte’s absences in the past have sparked rumors about his deteriorating health.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer May 21, 2019 08:48 UTC