Tribunal asked to compel Marcos health disclosure

A GROUP of retired military and legal professionals has asked the Supreme Court to compel the Executive branch to disclose clearer information on President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s health, citing what they described as weeks of public uncertainty over his condition.

In an urgent petition for mandamus dated April 10, the United People’s Initiative asked the tribunal to order Mr. Marcos to undergo a hair follicle drug test and publicly release the results to demonstrate his fitness for office.

“Considering the present volatile situation where a full-blown conflict can erupt at any moment, [there is a] need for a leader who is mentally and physically fit to steer the nation on a 24/7 basis,” the plaintiffs said.

Mr. Marcos on Monday appeared before Palace reporters to slam rumors about his health.

Doing jumping jacks before a surprise briefing at the Palace, he challenged anyone saying he is sick to exercise with him.

He said the last time he visited a hospital was during his diverticulitis scare — where small “pouches” in one’s colon get infected or swollen, causing stomach pain — in January.

He is taking Allopurinol, which is maintenance medicine for gout, and another for hypertension, he said.

After his briefing, he encouraged Palace reporters to run with him back to his office.

In its pleading, the group said the request is anchored on the public’s right to information, arguing that unclear or conflicting reports about the President’s condition have fueled uncertainty that could undermine public trust and institutional stability.

The petition cited what it described as a “lack of transparency” surrounding Mr. Marcos’ medical status, alleging inconsistencies between official media releases and public appearances.

It pointed to his attendance at the Day of Valor commemorations, where petitioners claimed there were “conflicting depictions” of his physical condition in different video materials.

“We the people have a constitutional right to be informed of the state of his health (including physical and mental condition of the President) particularly when such condition may impair his ability to discharge official duties,” they added.

The group also argued that global standards recognize hair follicle testing as a reliable method for detecting long-term substance use, and said such a test would address doubts about the President’s capacity to govern.

It further said the petition comes amid a national energy emergency linked to the Middle East war, which heightens the need for stable leadership during a period of economic and geopolitical volatility.

The petitioners asked the Supreme Court to direct Mr. Marcos to undergo and publicly disclose the results of a hair follicle drug test, and to require the Executive branch to issue regular and accurate medical bulletins if any condition arises that could affect the President’s ability to perform his duties.

Mr. Marcos earlier dismissed the allegations regarding his health as “fake news,” insisting that he is in good condition. Malacañang has yet to issue a detailed response to the petition. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking