The Philippine Online Chronicles

Former president and incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's medical condition did not changover the weekend, her doctors said on Wednesday.

Radio dzBB's report quoted St. Luke's Medical Center spokersperson Marilen Lagniton saying that the former president is still receiving medication and being monitored for infection. Arroyo is still confined in the hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and can only be visited by close family members.

Arroyo's second operation on Thursday failed due to an infection allegedly brought about by her first operation on her spine.

Getting better

However, Candaba, Pampanga Mayor Jerry Pelayo, said Arroyo's condition has improved.

Moreover, Arroyo's lawyer Raul Lambino said Arroyo was in stable condition although she haslost her appetite.

Lambino got the information when he talked with former First Gentleman Mike Arroyo.

Lambino also denied the allegations that he said Arroyo's possible treatment abroad was recommended.

"Hindi po sa akin nanggaling yan pero sa mga detractors nya mismo, spin nila yan," said Lambino.

Meanwhile, the former president's orthopedic surgeon denied that the titanium implants used in the surgery caused an allergic reaction after the first operation.

“Titanium implants have been used for a long time. They are supposedly inert,” said Dr. Mario Ver to reporters.

Cases of body's rejection to titanium plates are very rare, he added.

Ver said he cannot recall an instance wherein a patient developed a bacteria causing an allergic reaction after the installation of titanium plates in any part of the body.

Still on watch list

Meanwhile, Justice Sec. Leila de Lima has insisted that she will not lift Arroyo's watchlist order (WLO).

"The WLO stays, hindi ko naman ili-lift pa yung WLO. Hihintayin ko na muna yung formal request [from the Arroyos] para alamin ko, malaman ko kung ano yung proper course of action na gagawin ko rin to guide me in my decision on whether or not to grant the request," said de Lima in an interview with the media.

Malacanang earlier left the decision on whether or not Arroyo should be allowed to seek medical report to the Justice department.