Why Duterte went missing after elections

ABS-CBN News

Presumptive President Rodrigo Duterte admitted Monday that he retreated from public eye after the May 9 elections to rest from his taxing poll campaign and recover from bronchial infection.

In a press conference, Duterte explained: "My defenses were down. You're not talking to a young man, ang immune system ko talagang bumaba."

At 71, Duterte will be the oldest Philippine president when he assumes office on June 30.

Duterte said his doctor also tested him for pneumonia and advised him to take two more days of rest.

But, he also said that he is feeling better now. "Nag-x-ray ako, medyo okay na."

Duterte, who used to smoke, has admitted that he has Buerger's disease, a condition that causes constriction of blood vessels due to nicotine, and Barrett's disease, which is associated with excessive drinking.

He also had a slipped disc from a motorcycle accident 10 years ago.

- DZMM TeleRadyo, 16 April 2016