Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday countered rumours about his health by doing jumping jacks and a short jog in front of journalists.
The brief display took place outside his office, where the 68-year-old appeared in formal wear, including leather shoes and reading glasses.
He used the moment to push back against claims that he is seriously ill.
“I challenge anyone who are saying that I am sick, that they come and exercise with me,” Marcos told reporters.
“You come to the gym with me. Let’s see who can lift the weights better.”
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He dismissed the rumours outright.
“Those people who tell you that I’m sick, that I’m paralyzed, they’re all liars,” he said.
Speculation about his health grew after he was out of the public eye in January.
He later said he was hospitalised for an abdominal issue linked to stress and age.
Marcos also revealed he was diagnosed with diverticulitis, a condition that affects the digestive tract.
Speaking again on Monday, he played down the rumours, saying attention should be on more serious global concerns, including tensions in the Middle East.