Noy in good health despite coughing

MANILA, Philippines - After almost four years in office, President Aquino remains in good health and looks fit enough to perform the rigors of his job until 2016, Malacañang said yesterday.

This is despite coughing episodes as well as occasional ailments that force him to stay home.

So far, there has been no incident of hospitalization for 54-year-old Aquino, a smoker, unlike his predecessors.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte was asked about the issue during a press briefing yesterday as reports came out that US President Barack Obama was given a clean bill of health on Thursday by his doctor, who noted in a medical report that daily exercise, healthy eating and a “tobacco free” lifestyle helped the 52-year-old stay in great shape.

Asked if Aquino was strong enough to last until 2016, Valte said: “I don’t have a crystal ball but, certainly, he will. You know, he runs around to all of these engagements, all of these meetings and I think yes, he is in good health enough to do that.”

Reuters quoted Ronny Jackson, Obama’s physician, that the US leader’s overall health was excellent and “all clinical data indicates that he is currently healthy and that he will remain so for the duration of his presidency.”

According to Valte, Aquino immediately consults with his physicians whenever he feels sick, whether with flu or cold, stomach pains or bouts with allergies.

“The President consults his personal physicians on a very regular basis. And I was told by one of them that yes, he generally is in good health,” Valte said.

“Of course, I cannot go into details. I myself do not have those details owing to the fact that we respect the patient-doctor privilege,” Valte said.

She said allergies were aggravating the President’s coughing and not because there was something serious about his condition.

“The staff around him make sure that when the President is visiting an area outside of the Palace, his allergies will not be triggered. But, you know, that cannot be ensured all the time,” Valte said.

Aquino had mentioned that he is allergic to pollen and flower arrangements could trigger sneezing and coughing.