"Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual," Buckingham Palace announced early Tuesday morning (Philippine time).

The development came after the monarch had undergone a medical procedure for an enlarged prostate, but the Palace did not specify whether the detected cancer was prostate cancer.

King Charles spent three nights at the London Clinic, a private hospital near Regent’s Park, for his recent procedure.

He was last seen by the public over the weekend during a morning church service in Sandringham, Norfolk. His wife, Queen Camilla, accompanied him.

Buckingham said he wanted to disclose his diagnosis in part to avoid speculation on his condition but also "in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer."

The King had previously served as a patron to some cancer-related charities.

According to their Constitution, when the head of state is unable to carry out official duties, "counsellors of state" can be appointed to stand in for the monarch. At present, that includes Queen Camilla, Prince William, the Princess Royal, and Prince Edward.

Prince Harry and the Duke of York are no longer called upon as they are non-working royals.

Kensington Palace announced in a separate statement that Prince William, the next in line to the throne, will be returning to public duties later this week after taking time off to support his wife in her recovery from abdominal surgery,

Charles became monarch on the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022.