By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Detained Senator Rodante Marcoleta personally requested that only Vice President Sara Duterte and Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla be allowed to visit him during his confinement at the Philippine National Police General Hospital (PNPGH), according to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
CIDG National Capital Region chief Col. John Guiagui said Friday that although numerous supporters, relatives, political allies, and friends had sought permission to see Marcoleta, only Duterte and Padilla were granted access, in addition to the senator’s legal team.
Guiagui explained that the limited visitation was made upon Marcoleta’s own request and was approved by CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II. Police authorities then implemented the arrangement under strict security and visitation protocols.
The CIDG official emphasized that the restriction was not imposed arbitrarily but was intended to respect Marcoleta’s wishes while ensuring order and security during his hospitalization.
Marcoleta has remained under police custody at the PNPGH since his arrest on July 6, where he is being treated for mild pneumonia.
The issue surfaced after the Sandiganbayan questioned hospital officials during Friday’s proceedings over why visitors had been permitted despite the senator’s medical condition, which had earlier been cited as requiring isolation.
Responding to the court’s concerns, Guiagui said the CIDG would further tighten access to Marcoleta’s hospital room, adding that only individuals specifically authorized under existing security and medical protocols would be allowed entry.
The detained senator continues to face plunder and graft charges before the Sandiganbayan while remaining under medical supervision at the police hospital.
ia/xf
