Senator Imee Marcos on Saturday raised concerns over the health of her brother, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., claiming that his recent illness may have been aggravated by what she described as a lack of genuine care from people around him in Malacañang Palace.
In a video message posted on social media, the senator said she was troubled by the President’s condition and questioned whether those closest to him were truly looking after his wellbeing.
“Among all the people surrounding him in the Palace, who really loves my brother?” Imee Marcos asked. She added that the President’s health could continue to suffer if those around him remained focused on their own interests rather than his recovery.
The senator did not name specific individuals, but she urged the President to prioritize his health and to be more cautious about the people he allows to influence him. She also appealed to him to take time to rest and recover fully, warning that continued strain could worsen his condition.
Her remarks came after Malacañang confirmed that President Marcos was placed under medical observation last week following reports that he was not feeling well. According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, the President was briefly monitored at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City before being allowed to return to the Palace.
Castro said the President later resumed his official duties, assuring the public that his condition was stable and that there was no cause for alarm. She stressed that the Palace continues to monitor the President’s health closely.
However, Imee Marcos’ public comments prompted a swift response from the Palace.
In a statement on Sunday, Castro criticized the senator’s remarks, saying issues concerning the President’s health should not be trivialized or used for political statements. She urged sincerity and genuine concern, warning against turning a sensitive medical matter into a platform for criticism.
Castro said discussions about the President’s condition should be handled responsibly, adding that Malacañang remains committed to ensuring that the Chief Executive receives proper medical attention and care.
The exchange has drawn public attention, not only to the President’s health, but also to the apparent tension within the Marcos political circle. Analysts noted that while family members may express concern out of personal worry, public statements about the President’s condition can easily take on political overtones.
For now, the Palace has maintained that President Marcos is fit to continue performing his duties, even as questions persist over how his health is being managed inside Malacañang.
