Malacañang downplayed concerns over the health of former President Rodrigo Duterte, following comments from his former wife Elizabeth Zimmerman that he now appears “buto’t balat” (skin and bones), amid ongoing investigations into alleged human rights violations.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said Tuesday that Duterte’s condition is not a cause for concern, citing Zimmerman’s assurance that the former president is “okay” and appears healthy despite his weight loss.
“The former President even said, ‘You go home. I’m fine. I’m okay,’” Castro said, quoting Zimmerman.
She added that Duterte reportedly no longer takes maintenance medication, which Zimmerman saw as a positive development.
Castro also noted that Vice President Sara Duterte earlier confirmed her father’s stable condition.
“It’s really better to have his health checked right there in The Hague,” she said, referring to the former president’s reported stay in the Netherlands, where the International Criminal Court continues its probe.
“For now, since it’s his own family saying he’s okay, maybe all he needs is a bit more exercise,” Castro said.
Zimmerman said the former president, now 79 years old, has become physically weaker and moves more slowly, but no longer takes maintenance medication.
Duterte has been in ICC custody for over four months, facing charges of crimes against humanity in connection with his administration’s bloody war on drugs. A confirmation hearing for the case is scheduled for September 23, 2025.
