No need to keep Romualdez confined to hospital— PGH director

The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) on Monday found that there is no need to keep Leyte Representative and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez confined to the hospital.

Dr. Gerardo "Gap" D. Legaspi said that Romualdez is deemed clinically stable.

He affirmed that Romualdez can now be discharged.

Legaspi said that though Romualdez’ identified conditions need monitoring and treatment, confinement is not necessary, provided that medical care is assured.

According to the Legaspi, the lawmaker has a 30% chance to suffer a heart attack in the next 30 years or 3% per year. He said this is not very high.

Meanwhile, he said Romualdez has a 3% to 5% chance for a stroke.

Legaspi added that this is not related to a major artery of the brain, but a small vessel disease which is common with diabetes.

He also advised Romualdez to use a CPAP machine due to airway pressure during sleep, but he said the official refused.

Aside from this, the PGH found that Romualdez has major depression and anxiety. The team found that he does not exhibit suicidal intent.

Despite this, it recommended a follow up and monitoring of his risk and mood.

Romualdez was transferred to the PGH in Manila from the Cardinal Santos Medical Center in San Juan City on Saturday morning.

PGH officials were tasked by the Sandiganbayan Third Division with assessing if Romualdez needs medical confinement after an arrest warrant was issued against him. Otherwise, he could be detained at the Quezon City Jail.

Romualdez is facing plunder charges in connection with flood control projects. — AOL/RSJ, GMA News