Ex-Pres. Gloria Arroyo closely watched by doctors after surgery

Former President and incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Arroyo is closely being watched by her doctors, who have limited even the visits of her family after having her second surgery a few days ago. Arroyo remained under intensive care (ICU) at the St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig City Friday, according to a report by radio dzBB's Rodil Vega. The report said even members of her immediate family had to wear medical gowns, masks, and gloves when visiting her to avoid infecting her. Arroyo underwent surgery because of a pinched nerve in her spine. On Wednesday, Arroyo's doctors said they were not successful in correcting the condition in Arroyo's neck and that the former president would have to undergo surgery a third time. Arroyo's physician Juliet Cervantes earlier said Arroyo had developed an infection and will continue to take antibiotics. he dzBB report said doctors are placing Arroyo under further observation for at least three weeks to see if the infection will go away, before operating on her a third time. On Thursday, Arroyo's allies appealed to Filipinos for prayers for Arroyo. - VVP, GMA News