MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte merely laughed off rumors he was confined in hospital, Malacañang said yesterday, as it said the 74-year-old leader does not take speculations about his health seriously. Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said Duterte’s voice was “very strong” and “upbeat” when they talked about rumors regarding the President’s condition over the phone last Sunday. But from the sound of his voice, he was very upbeat,” Panelo said. Malacañang denied the rumors but it was not clear whether Duterte underwent medical check-up. In a statement issued Sunday, Panelo said Duterte neither confirmed nor denied that he went to the hospital.

Source: Philippine Star May 20, 2019 16:00 UTC