Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced on Monday that Senator Rodante Marcoleta will stay at the Philippine National Police General Hospital for at least two days for a thorough medical evaluation before his transfer to a detention facility.
According to Remulla, the 72-year-old senator is being subjected to a comprehensive series of health checks to evaluate his physical fitness for confinement following his recent arrest.
“He is now undergoing medical procedures. Senator Marcoleta is already 72 years old. It is not just a simple blood pressure and heartbeat check. He still has to undergo several tests, including an ECG and other examinations, to ensure his fitness,” Remulla told reporters.
The DILG chief noted that the complete medical results are expected within two days and will be forwarded to the Sandiganbayan, which will then dictate the subsequent steps regarding his custody.
“Hopefully, within the next two days, all his examinations will be completed so we can submit a full health report to the Sandiganbayan, after which he may be transferred as a person deprived of liberty (PDL) to the Quezon City Jail, pursuant to the court’s confinement order,” he said.
Remulla urged the public to remain patient while doctors conclude their medical assessment of the lawmaker.
“Please do not rush us. Give us time so we can obtain the full picture of his health,” he said.
Furthermore, Remulla confirmed that the standard booking procedures, which include taking the senator’s mugshot, are currently being processed.
He assured that the police are handling the situation professionally and with full respect for Marcoleta’s rights, without any intent to cause embarrassment.
“His mugshot will be released shortly, but there are still procedures that have to be completed,” Remulla said.
“I must remind everyone na we are not here to humiliate anyone. Kung ano man ang kanyang kalagayan sa kanyang buhok ay hindi ho namin. His picture will be taken as is, as he appears in public,” Remulla said.