Mike Enriquez is on medical leave.
Earlier today, August 22, he went live on his dzBB radio show to reveal his kidney condition and his scheduled bypass operation.
On 24 Oras, he further explained, "Namana ko 'to sa tatay ko, kaya kailangan ang regular na paggamot."
The 66-year-old broadcaster said he's also not worried about his operation, and assured his listeners and viewers, "Yung isasagawang operasyon, bypass operation, napaka-common, e. Pangkaraniwan na lang ngayon 'yon. Kaya sabi ng mga doktor, makakabalik ako sa aking normal na mga aktibidad pagkatapos ng operasyon."
Here's his official statement:
I am issuing this statement in response to a growing number of inquiries regarding my prolonged absence from the radio and television programs that I host on GMA.
I am currently on medical leave. I am being treated for kidney disease and I am scheduled to undergo a heart bypass operation in mid-September. My doctors have told me that two to four weeks after my surgery, I will be able to return to my normal duties. In the meantime, it is best that I rest and avoid stress to avoid any medical emergency before my bypass. While I am not yet back on the air, I continue to perform my functions as president of RGMA Network, Inc. and as Consultant for Radio of GMA Network, Inc.
I thank everyone for their expressions of support and wishes for good health, and most specially for their prayers. My doctors are good and caring and God is great!
I will be back!
Mike Enriquez
Meanwhile, the main news anchor has the full support of the Kapuso network, which issued this statement:
GMA Network is one with our Kapuso Mike Enriquez in facing this challenge. We fully support him and are praying for his successful surgery and quick recovery. Together with our viewers all over the world, his friends and colleagues here in GMA look forward to welcoming back a healthier and stronger Mike Enriquez soon.