Sandiganbayan allows Sen. Bong Revilla to have X-ray on heels

MANILA, Philippines—The Sandiganbayan First Division has allowed Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. to go to the hospital for an X-ray on his swollen heels.

In a resolution, the antigraft court said Revilla may go to the Philippine National Police (PNP) General Hospital 30 minutes before his scheduled X-ray on his heels.

The court said Revilla will shoulder the expenses of the X-ray.

The court, however, deferred its decision on his request for a physical therapy two to three times week for two weeks at the PNP General Hospital, requiring Revilla to submit a report on the X-ray to determine the necessity of the therapy.

“Considering that both accused Revilla and the prosecution are one in saying that indeed there is a need for further examination of the ailment the accused-movant claimed to be suffering from, the Court is inclined to allow accused Revilla to have his feet X-rayed at the PNP Hospital,” the resolution said.

In his motion for therapy, Revilla said he was diagnosed on Feb. 6 at the Philippine National Police (PNP) General Hospital with “Insertional Achilles Tendonitis B,” a degeneration of the fibers in the Achilles tendon, and “Herniated Nucleus Pulposus” of the lumbar region, a condition which causes pain on the neck and back.

“Unless proper medical attention is given to Senator Revilla, his condition may only aggravate. There is therefore a need for him to undergo a more extensive medical examination and treatment as soon as possible to address his medical conditions, so as to prevent further complications,” the motion read.

Revilla is detained for plunder and graft charges for allegedly pilfering millions in kickbacks from his Priority Development Assistance Funds under the scheme of Janet Lim-Napoles. Also detained for plunder are Napoles, and Senators Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and Juan Ponce Enrile, as well as former Representatives Edgar Valdez and Rizalina Seachon-Lanete.