THE Student Council Alliance of the Philippines and at least 10 other groups have asked the Supreme Court to order Malacañang to disclose the health condition of President Rodrigo Duterte.
The alliance submitted to the SC a unity statement signed by various groups a few days after the President mentioned, in jest, that his doctor told him his Barrett's Esophagus was "nearing stage one cancer".
The President has been suffering from Barrett's Esophagus, which could lead to esophageal cancer.
In their unity statement, the groups said the President has been "inconsistent" with his approach in addressing the Covid-19 crisis.
"This caused many to question the state of his health. His belabored and incoherent speeches and frail countenance have only further sowed doubts in our minds of his ability to carry out the duties of his office," they stated.
"Too much injustice has been perpetrated for us to remain idle. Too much pain has been caused for us to remain silent," they added.
The statement was signed by the Malaya movement, La Salle Debate Society, Student Council Alliance of the Philippines, UNESCO Young Professionals of the Philippines, National Union of Journalists in the Philippines (NUJP), National Union of Students pf the Philippines, Altermidya, Migrante USA, Libertas, UP Tacloban Debate Society, UP Los Banos Debate Society, and Benilde Debate Society asked for the full disclousure of Duterte's health.
They also expressed concern over the whereabouts of Duterte, saying pictures and videos of him looking "unwell" are circulating on social media and continue to raise speculations.
"The pertinent information is being withheld from the Filipino people regarding the state of the President's health. His sudden disappearances do not inspire confidence, and in fact, further validate the cause of the petition for Mandamus," the group stressed.
The same petition was also filed by lawyer Dino de Leon.
In his petition, De Leon also called on the SC to ask Duterte for his medical records.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque earlier assured that the President is fine. (VoxPop Philippines)
