Ex-President Noy at hospital for 'routine procedure' —spox

Former President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III was at the Makati Medical Center on Monday for a scheduled checkup, according to his spokesperson.

Lawyer Abigail Valte issued the statement after a radio report claimed that Aquino was at the MMC to undergo a heart procedure.

"Former President Noynoy Aquino is at the Makati Medical Center for a scheduled check up and a routine procedure," Valte said. "He's alright and in high spirits, and thanks everyone for their concern."

Valte said the former President even made a joke about his love life when she spoke with him.

"While he is currently under observation, I was able to speak to him and apprise him of what is being reported in media. Nagbiro pa na baka daw kaya heart procedure ang balita kasi heartbroken siya," she said.

Valte also disputed the statement of Makati City police Chief Rogelio Simon that said Aquino is undergoing heart operation.

"What business does Mr. Simon have in issuing medical bulletins in behalf of the former president?" Valte told GMA News Online in a text message.

"He’s neither the attending physician nor a medical doctor, unless he is intentionally sharing unverified information," she added.

In August this year, Aquino's sister, Kris Aquino, said that her brother was not able to join them in visiting the tomb of their parents during the death anniversary of their father, slain Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., because he is not okay.

The 59-year-old former President, however, disputed his sister and said he was just down with a flu. —KBK, GMA News