'Dolphy smiled, now more awake'

MANILA, Philippines - Comedy King Dolphy smiled and is now more awake, which his doctors at the Makati Medical Center said on Tuesday as a sign of significant improvement.

Dr. Eric Nubla, head of patient relations of the Makati Medical Center, told reporters that the 83-year old comedian also seemed ticklish, which he interpreted as a good sign.

“Naging mas improved ang body niya kaysa dati na 'di siya responsive,” Nubla said.

The doctor also said that Dolphy’s family had observed that the comedian has also now become sensitive to pain.

“Pag nakakaramdam ng pain, it’s good. It means nagre-respond siya sa stimulus,” he said.

Nubla said Dolphy’s family is now much relieved with the developments now happening.

“Masaya sila kasi worried talaga sila para sa father nila. He is now recovering. He is still critical, but stable. It is one day at a time now,” he said.

“He is also more awake now,” he added.

Nubla said Dolphy did not undergo dialysis today as his doctors had given him a break to rest. Nubla said Dolphy’s blood transfusions would still continue due to a drop in his platelet count.

Meanwhile, Nubla appealed to members of the media to respect Dolphy’s privacy.

It was recently reported that a female reporter had managed to sneak inside the building and was caught near the Intensive Care Unit where Dolphy is now confined.

“The ICU is a restricted area. Kahit mga family members ay restricted. The patients there need peace and quiet and we need to protect them from infection,” he said.

As for visitors wishing to see Dolphy, Nubla said it is for his family to screen his would be visitors.

Dolphy, was rushed to the Makati Medical Center last June 9. He was diagnosed to be suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).