The Sandiganbayan’s Third Division has directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to submit an official update concerning the arrest booking and medical status of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who has been hospitalized at Camp Crame since Monday.
Marcoleta, along with former Representative Mike Defensor and two co-accused, faces plunder allegations involving a contentious ₱75 million campaign contribution—an amount the senator previously admitted to receiving.
The anti-graft court has given law enforcement a strict 24-hour deadline from receipt of the order to deliver a comprehensive briefing on his physical health and the status of his custody.
The 72-year-old lawmaker was admitted to the PNP General Hospital after suffering from chest pains and neck discomfort during his initial processing, which triggered a spike in his blood pressure. Doctors placed him under continuous observation due to his age and condition.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. stated that while the court was formally notified of the served warrant on Monday, Marcoleta could not be personally presented to the bench due to his medical instability.
“He cannot still be physically brought because according to the doctors, his blood pressure is fluctuating,” Nartatez explained.
Defending the police department against potential allegations of double standards, Nartatez clarified that the delay rests entirely on health considerations.
“We are concerned that something might happen if he is brought there (Sandiganbayan). Of course, we need to preserve, protect life,” he added.
According to the PNP Chief, the senator is undergoing further diagnostic tests to provide the Sandiganbayan with a complete evaluation regarding his readiness for transfer.