The Supreme Court has directed respondents to submit their comments within 10 days on a petition seeking to compel President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto to undergo a physical and mental examination, including a hair follicle drug test.

During its En Banc session on Wednesday, April 22, the Supreme Court acted on G.R. No. E-05860 filed by former House Speaker Pantaleon D. Alvarez, Virgilio R. Garcia, Juan C. Raña, and Raymundo L. Junia against President Marcos Jr. and Recto.

The petition requests the issuance of a writ of mandamus that would require the president to undergo comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations to determine his fitness to perform the duties of the presidency.

It further seeks the disclosure and publication of the corresponding medical reports, including clinical findings on his physical and mental condition.

Without giving due course to the petition at this stage, the High Court ordered the respondents to file their comments within a non-extendible period of 10 days upon receipt of notice.

The case raises questions on the extent of judicial authority in compelling the president to undergo and disclose medical examinations, a matter now set for further proceedings as the Court evaluates the legal merits of the petition.