Miriam Santiago out of ICU, in stable condition

Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, who is being treated for pneumonia due to complications from lung cancer, is now recovering in a private room at the Makati Medical Center (MMC) after being transferred there midday Thursday, according to a statement from her office.

Santiago had spent almost two days at the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

“She is now in stable condition,” said a statement released by Santiago’s office on her latest condition.

The 70-year-old Santiago, who has stage 4 lung cancer, was rushed to the hospital last Monday. She was transferred to the ICU on Tuesday night.

Santiago announced on July 2, 2014, that she had lung cancer.

Last year, she said she had beaten cancer after joining a clinical trial for a new anticancer treatment drug and announced that she was eyeing the presidency.

She did run for President on the May 9 elections but lost to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.

Just last month, the senator, whose term ends on June 30, wrote Senate President Franklin Drilon to inform the chamber that she would continue with her medical leave as she had developed anorexia or inability to eat due to her medications.

In its statement, Santiago’s office said “she was met by a steady stream of visitors bearing presents” when she was rushed to MMC. The hospital management has since discouraged visitors and gifts for the senator.

In lieu of the gifts, the staff has asked her supporters “to express sympathy and compassion, and to send prayer cards to the senator’s official Facebook page.”

Senators went to Twitter to say they were praying and hoping for Santiago’s swift recovery.

“My prayers for @senmiriam’s immediate recovery. Despite her illness, she has shown us that serving the country still comes first,” said Sen. Nancy Binay.

Sen. JV Ejercito tweeted, “@senmiriam, praying for your speedy recovery madame!”

“Hoping and praying for Senator Miriam’s speedy recovery. Your tremendous courage is an inspiration to us all,” Sen. Loren Legarda said.

Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara tweeted, “Hope she is OK.”

Former Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr. said he sent a message to Santiago’s office and was happy to know her condition has improved.