Erap gets extended medical leave

The Sandiganbayan Special Division has allowed former President Joseph Estrada to stay at the San Juan Medical Center until 9 a.m. on Monday on the request of his lawyers and doctors.

"Acting on the urgent manifestation and motion dated Feb. 1, 2006 filed by Atty. R. Saguisag, counsel for the accused, the Court hereby allows accused former President Joseph Estrada to stay in the San Juan Medical Center over the weekend. The accused former President shall be transported back to his place of detention in Tanay, Rizal, not later than 9 a.m. of Feb. 6, 2006," the Sandiganbayan said.

The extension of the stay of the accused at the hospital and his transfer to his place of detention shall be subject to the same conditions and restrictions as well as the security and safety measures contained in the resolution dated Jan. 30, 2006," the resolution signed by Justices Teresita Leonardo de Castro, Francisco Villaruz Jr. and Diosdado Peralta read.

The Sandiganbayan Special Division also ordered Edgardo Urieta, chief of the Sandiganbayan’s Security and Sheriff Services, to coordinate with the Philippine National Police in the enforcement of the resolution.