Police doctors at the Philippine National Police General Hospital (PNPGH) on Monday said detained Sen. Rodante Marcoleta must complete his antibiotic treatment for mild pneumonia before he can be declared fit to travel.

Lt. Col. Benaly Bayani, chief of the PNPGH Internal Medicine Department, said Marcoleta's antibiotics course is expected to end on 16 July, after which he may be cleared for transfer.

The statement came after the Sandiganbayan ordered the PNP to present the senator for the issuance of a commitment order that could lead to his transfer to the Quezon City Jail in Payatas, where his co-accused are detained.

Marcoleta has remained under the custody of the PNPGH since his arrest on 6 July due to fluctuating blood pressure and mild pneumonia.

"Our recommendation is simply for him to complete his antibiotic treatment. After that, anytime the court orders it, we can transfer Senator Marcoleta," Bayani told reporters.

She said there is no need to transfer the senator to another hospital, adding that the results of his medical tests, including a 2D echocardiogram, have already been submitted to the Sandiganbayan through the hospital's daily medical reports.

Marcoleta remains confined while facing a non-bailable plunder case filed by the Office of the Ombudsman.