A PHYSICIAN rom the Philippine National Police (PNP) informed the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Friday that Senator Rodante Marcoleta is now medically fit to travel.
The update was presented during a scheduled hearing called specifically to assess the lawmaker’s health status, just days after the anti‑graft court issued a warrant of arrest against him in connection with a plunder case.
The arrest order was released by the Third Division last Monday. Shortly after being served the warrant, Marcoleta complained of chest pains and high blood pressure, prompting authorities to admit him immediately to the PNP General Hospital for monitoring and treatment.
His condition raised questions about his ability to be transferred or brought to court proceedings, leading the tribunal to set a separate hearing to receive a formal medical assessment.
During the session, Associate Justice Karl Miranda directly asked Lt. Col. Benaly Bayani, Chief of Internal Medicine at the PNP General Hospital, whether the senator was fit to travel. In response, Bayani confirmed that Marcoleta’s condition had significantly improved and stated that, based on his current medical evaluation, the lawmaker is now fit to travel.
This development clears the way for the court and authorities to proceed with the next steps in the case, including possible transfer and appearance before the tribunal.
metrosundaily
