(UPDATE) The ousted Congressman of Negros Oriental, Arnolfo Teves Jr., has been advised to undergo significant surgical procedures and was moved to St. Luke’s Medical Center in Bonifacio Global City on Tuesday, according to his attorney.
Ferdinand Topacio stated in an issued press release to the media that Teves underwent examination at a public hospital from early morning till late afternoon. The medical professionals determined that his situation necessitated surgery which could not be performed at this location.
"Mr. Teves needs significant medical intervention at another facility equipped with extra tools and amenities," explained Topacio.
He mentioned that government physicians suggested moving him to St. Luke's BGC following the BJMP guidelines for handling urgent medical situations.
"Mr. Teves' ongoing cases in all trial courts have been notified about the circumstances using the fastest method available," Topacio stated.
He mentioned that his client started feeling severe stomach ache close to midnight, yet proper medical attention was not provided for quite some time after that.
He was almost kneeling down pleading to be taken to a hospital, yet the BJMP staff couldn’t fulfill this request because of ‘protocol,’" explained Topacio. "Only after my arrival just before 7 a.m., did they finally transport the patient to medical care. Unfortunately, by that time, the discomfort had intensified.
The BJMP, responsible for managing the maximum-security prison in Taguig City where Teves is incarcerated, verified that the prisoner was transported to a government hospital approximately at 6 a.m. on June 17.
"As per standard protocols, PDL Teves was taken to the closest public hospital based on the recommendation of the BJMP mobile doctor because of intense abdominal pain," the agency stated in their release.
The BJMP stated that Teves started showing signs of illness around 7 p.m. on June 16, which led the prison nurse to provide preliminary care.
Nevertheless, the discomfort supposedly worsened during the night, prompting the doctor to direct the administrator of Metro Manila District Jail-Annex 2 to arrange for medical attention at a hospital.
Teves is facing numerous charges related to the March 2023 assassination of Governor Roel Degamo from Negros Oriental and several other individuals.
He has refuted any connection and continues to be held in custody as his cases remain before the court.