Romualdez's health condition not critical, court hears from physician

MANILA — A physician at Cardinal Santos Medical Center testified in court Thursday that former House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez's medical condition is not an emergency case, contrary to implications that may have suggested otherwise.

Romualdez, a prominent political figure, was admitted to the private hospital on Monday after complaining of chest pains. The hospitalization occurred on the same day the Sandiganbayan's Third Division, the anti-graft court, issued orders in a proceeding involving the former speaker.

The medical assessment provided by the admitting physician suggests that while Romualdez required hospitalization and observation, his condition did not pose an immediate life-threatening situation. The testimony came as part of court proceedings related to the former legislator's case.

Romualdez previously served as Speaker of the House of Representatives and remains a prominent figure in Philippine politics. Details regarding the specific nature of the Sandiganbayan's orders and their connection to Romualdez's hospitalization were not immediately disclosed.