Palace to critics: There’s nothing you can do about Duterte’s intentional absence

MANILA, Philippines — There is nothing the public can do about President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision to intentionally stay away from the public eye when he wants to, Malacañang said Thursday.

After an almost two-week absence, Duterte admitted he intentionally did it and even likened himself to a child who becomes more petulant when riled up.

“Wala po kayong magagawa, ‘yun ang paniniwala ng Presidente,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in an online briefing when asked to comment on those criticizing Duterte over his remarks.

(You can’t do anything, that’s what the President believes.)

“Lalo siyang ginigipit, lalo siyang lalaban. So hayaan na po natin ‘yun, estilo ni Presidente ‘yun. Kanya-kanyang estilo tayo,” he added.

(The more you provoke him, the more he will fight. Let’s leave it at that. That’s the President’s style. We have our own styles.)

The President’s absence from the public eye sparked speculations about his health condition, prompting his close aide Senator Bong Go to share undated photos of Duterte playing golf, jogging and even riding a motorcyle.

Duterte himself dispelled rumors on his health, saying he has no illness that would prevent him from exercising his duties as president.

EDV