Philippine President not suffering from cancer

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday said he did not have cancer, following a biopsy last week at a private hospital that proved negative for the disease.

"I'm still not cancerous," Duterte told a televised briefing at the presidential palace. "So do not be afraid to go near me, I will not contaminate you."

The public has been clamouring for information about Duterte's health after the 73-year-old missed two official events last week.

Earlier on Tuesday, Duterte's acting interior minister said the president had told a cabinet meeting on Monday night that he did not have cancer.