MANILA — Former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan has undergone two medical procedures following a heart attack, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Friday.
The 80-year-old former official was moved from the PNP General Hospital to The Medical City for intensive monitoring after experiencing another dangerous spike in blood pressure ahead of his scheduled arraignment on Thursday. His camp subsequently sought hospital arrest due to his worsening condition.
Remulla said the Sandiganbayan will receive a formal medical diagnosis, with a complete report expected next Monday. He confirmed that Bonoan had already undergone two procedures this week to treat complications from the heart attack.
Authorities said they are considering medical advice in handling his situation, noting that his health condition requires close supervision. If necessary, his detention status may be adjusted to allow treatment in a more advanced medical facility.
At Thursday’s hearing, the anti-graft court noted that Bonoan suffers from multiple serious illnesses, including heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, carcinoma, prostate cancer, and spinal pain.
Bonoan is currently facing graft and plunder charges together with Senator Jinggoy Estrada and other DPWH officials in connection with alleged irregularities in flood control projects involving supposed multi-million peso kickbacks.
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