Former PNP official Garma leaves a House hearing because of ear and neck pain

Retired police colonel Royina Garma was unable to attend a House of Representatives hearing on Thursday due to reported neck and ear pain.

“We received an excuse letter from Miss Royina Garma, requesting a medical checkup as she is experiencing pain in her left neck and lower ear,” said House Committee on Public Accounts chairperson, Abang Lingkod party-list Representative Joseph Stephen Paduano, during the hearing.

In a report published by GMANEWS. The House committees on dangerous drugs, public order and safety, human rights, and public accounts—collectively known as the “Quadcom”—are conducting an investigation into extrajudicial killings, illegal drugs, and Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Antipolo Representative Romeo Acop suggested that Garma be sent to a government hospital as per House committee hearing protocols.

“Our committee hearings follow a protocol where we first obtain an opinion from the House medical team. If necessary, the resource person should then be taken to a government hospital,” Acop explained.

In response, Surigao del Norte Representative Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the House dangerous drugs panel, instructed the House medical team to ensure Garma is brought to a government hospital.

“Comm. Sec., please coordinate with the House medical director and arrange for Colonel Garma to be taken to a government-operated hospital,” Barbers directed.

On September 12, the Quadcom held Garma in contempt after she refused to give a clear answer when asked about her relationship with former President Duterte. Davao Prison and Penal Farm head Gerardo Padilla also informed lawmakers that Garma had instructed him over the phone not to interfere with operations involving three Chinese inmates convicted of drug offenses.

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