FORMER Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan remains at a private medical facility and has not yet been moved to the PNP General Hospital, as doctors are still waiting for the findings of his 2D echocardiogram and angiogram.
Police Brigadier General Portia Manalad, Director of the PNP Health Service, explained that the ex‑cabinet official was placed under hospital arrest after showing elevated cardiac markers and other health issues while already in police custody.
Manalad stated that the transfer will proceed only when his attending physician gives clearance and in compliance with the Sandiganbayan’s resolution.
“Once his doctor gives the go‑signal, we are willing to receive him at the PNP General Hospital as ordered by the court,” she said. She also noted that if the angiogram reveals any blockage in his arteries, Bonoan may require angioplasty — a procedure which the police hospital cannot perform due to limited facilities.
She further clarified that specialized services such as angiograms, MRIs, CT scans, and other advanced interventions are not available on their premises, which is why he was initially brought to a private hospital capable of providing such care. Despite the complications, Manalad confirmed that his condition has been steadily improving day by day. “His medical team updates us regularly, and we can see clear progress. His blood pressure is now well‑managed, a big improvement from the severe hypertensive crisis he suffered earlier,” she added.
The current plan is to move Bonoan to the PNP General Hospital once he is medically cleared and after an assessment by their own doctors. Following his confinement there, he will eventually be transferred to the New Quezon City Jail in Payatas. The transport and turnover to the jail facility will be undertaken by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, in accordance with proper procedures and security protocols.
