Suspected rebel leader Ramon Patriarca was finally moved to a stockade in the military’s Central Command (Centcom) in Lapu-Lapu City yesterday morning.
Before the transfer, Patriarca underwent a medical examination where his blood sugar level was found to be low, possibly the effect of a hunger strike he started to protest his surprise transfer last week from the Danao city jail.
Patriarca, who is facing rebellion charges, was ordered moved to a military detention cell by Sylva Aguirre-Paderanga of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Danao City.
In a press statement, the local chapter of the militant group Karapatan complained that they and Patriarca’s brother Jesus were barred from visiting him at his cell twice when he was temporarily moved to the Cebu provincial jail.
Karapatan Secretary General Dennis Abarrientos said Patriarca was placed in isolation to avoid “influencing inmates” at the provincial jail.
Lt. Col. Christopher Tampus, Centcom spokesman, said the family and friends of Patriarca can visit him at the military detention cell as long as they observe regular visiting hours and other military camp rules. . Correspondent Gabriel C. Bonjoc