Medical consultation? President’s tight sked won’t allow it – Roque

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. INQUIRER file photo / JOAN BONDOC

JERUSALEM—President Rodrigo Duterte’s hectic schedule during his four-day official visit to Israel belies rumors that he is here for medical reasons, according to presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

Speaking to Filipino reporters on Tuesday, Roque said he could not see where in his busy schedule the President could squeeze in time for medical consultation.

For Tuesday, the President was expected to meet with Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and later attend a business forum, Roque said.

Told that actually there were massive holes in the President’s schedule, Roque said those were free time for Mr. Duterte to rest and see important places in the Holy Land.

Mr. Duterte denied he was sick after communist leader Jose Maria Sison said the President fell ill and slipped into a coma two weeks ago.