Reuters –  Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Saturday (October 5) he has a chronic neuromuscular disorder called myasthenia gravis that is causing one of his eyelids to droop.

Duterte made the comment about his condition while speaking to the Filipino community in Russia, where he was on a working visit.

There is no cure for myasthenia gravis, an illness that causes muscle weakness, but treatment can help relieve symptoms.

The firebrand leader, 74, is known for a busy schedule and for giving long speeches, often several a day.

Several disappearances from public view in the past fuelled rumours he is in declining health.

The government has repeatedly denied that.

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