President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday skipped the change of command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Tuesday, the first time that a commander-in-chief missed the ceremony in eight years.
“The punishing schedule of official and social events the previous days has slightly affected his body temperature. He opted to rest so he can be his usual health in no time,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana represented Duterte in the rites held at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
Vice President Leni Robredo was also present during the changing of the guard rites that saw Lt. Gen. Noel Clement assuming the military’s top post, replacing Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr.
On Sunday, Duterte attended the baptism of Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco’s daughter, Sara.
Accompanied by his common-law wife Honeylet Avanceña, the President graced the event as a “mentor” of the child, along with business tycoon Ramon Ang.
On Monday, Duterte has attended the surprise birthday party of Panelo at Shangri-La Makati.
An Instagram video posted by former actress Gretchen Barretto showed Duterte singing during the party.
