Palace to Mike Arroyo: Clearance needed to stay at Veterans’ hospital

Former First Gentleman Mike Arroyo. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo has to secure clearance from the Philippine National Police if he wanted to stay with former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo after she was detained at the Veterans’ Memorial Medical Center for the non-bailable charge of  electoral sabotage.

“That will have to be cleared with the PNP,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte, a lawyer, said Saturday.

“From what I understand they are supposed to give a list of visitors in advance before the actual visit happens.  They will just have to coordinate with the PNP on how that is to be done.”

Pressed on whether it could be allowed, Valte said, “We will leave that to the PNP.”

“At this point, CGMA [for Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal-Aarrooyo] is in the custody of the PNP. As such, they have full responsibility, so they should be given full discretion. They are the ones responsible.  So let us allow them to implement the measures and approve what needs to be approved,” Valte said.