Senator Christopher 'Bong' Go called on the public to pray for former executive secretary Salvador 'Bingbong' Medialdea, who was hospitalized and is set to undergo a medical procedure.

In his social media post, Go said Medialdea would undergo the procedure on Sunday morning, urging Filipinos to offer prayers for its success.

The senator’s office said Medialdea fell ill while delivering a message during a solidarity walk held in Davao City on 28 March to mark the 81st birthday of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

According to Go, Medialdea was unable to finish his speech after experiencing discomfort and was immediately brought to the hospital.

Go, a longtime aide of Duterte, said the former official’s condition prompted concern among attendees of the event.

Medialdea served as executive secretary during Duterte’s administration and is currently part of the former president’s legal team. 

Duterte is presently detained in The Hague in connection with allegations of crimes against humanity.