Marcoleta med exam at PGH mandated

Amid questions over the medical condition of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, the Sandiganbayan Third Division has ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to bring him to the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) for an independent medical examination.

In a resolution dated 13 July, the anti-graft court directed the PNP to bring Marcoleta to UP-PGH for a clinical evaluation on 14 July at 12 noon, if the order had not yet been carried out.

The court also ordered UP-PGH officials to submit a medical report and appear before the Sandiganbayan during the 15 July hearing, where Marcoleta is likewise expected to be present.

Questions over Marcoleta’s health arose after officials from the PNP General Hospital testified before the anti-graft court regarding his condition.

During the hearing, Associate Justice Ronald Moreno asked why Marcoleta had yet to undergo the standard court process.

Police Lt. Col. Benely Bayani testified that Marcoleta was being treated with antibiotics and was under isolation after being diagnosed with mild pneumonia. Bayani recommended that the senator appear in court wearing a face mask to avoid exposure to other illnesses.

Justice Moreno, however, noted that Vice President Sara Duterte and Senator Robin Padilla had separately visited Marcoleta at the hospital without wearing face masks.

Police Brig. Gen. Portia Manalad acknowledged the lapse and said the PNP would ensure that health protocols are strictly enforced for all visitors.

Marcoleta has been confined at the PNP General Hospital since July 6 after surrendering on an arrest warrant issued in connection with a plunder case filed by the Office of the Ombudsman. The case stems from allegations that he received P75 million in campaign donations in 2025.