BJMP defends transfer of Senator Jinggoy Estrada from QC Jail to Cardinal Santos hospital

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) denied allegations of special treatment surrounding Sen. Jinggoy Estrada’s recent hospital visit, noting that his medical leave was strictly court-approved.

BJMP spokesperson Jayrex Bustinera emphasized that Estrada’s Wednesday transfer to Cardinal Santos Medical Center in San Juan City followed an order from the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division, not bureau discretion.

The statement responds to backlash from political prisoner support groups. Danilo dela Fuente of SELDA noted the condition was non-emergent, while Laya Campaign spokesperson Amanda Echanis claimed "plunderers are treated with kid gloves."

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Fernando Syquia recommended surgery for a severe meniscus tear in Estrada's left knee. In his court motion, Estrada cited pre-existing joint effusion and osteoarthritis ahead of his June 1 detention in Quezon City.

The senator is accused of pocketing ₱573 million in kickbacks tied to 2025 national budget infrastructure projects. -Paraluman News