MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte has not been visible to the public this week because he is busy with private meetings and paperwork, Malacañang said yesterday.
Duterte, known for his hectic schedule, has not had a public engagement since Aug. 9. He was last seen in public attending the 118th anniversary of the police service in Camp Crame.
“He has a lot of private meetings, courtesy calls.
He also said last night he has lots of papers (to read),” presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a press briefing.
“The problem with us lawyers is we really read the papers before signing them,” he added.
Panelo described Duterte as “workaholic,” saying the President takes time before he signs any document.
Duterte’s prolonged absence from public eye in the past had triggered rumors that he was sick. Officials have denied this and claimed that the President remains in the pink of health.