VMMC monitors Lopez, Acosta after hospitalization

The Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) in Quezon City is closely monitoring the health conditions of Office of the Vice President chief of staff Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez and special disbursing officer Gina Acosta, who were hospitalized after falling ill.

Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal, a VMMC spokesperson, confirmed that Lopez is receiving treatment for acute stress disorder and musculoskeletal strain including shoulder pain and spinal issues, while details on Acosta's condition remain undisclosed due to patient confidentiality.

Medical professionals at VMMC are conducting routine diagnostic tests and imaging procedures to accurately evaluate the conditions of both officials, who were hospitalized following developments in the probe into OVP budget use.

The hospital remains committed to providing compassionate care and will share updates in accordance with privacy protocols, ensuring that ongoing events do not affect the delivery of services to patients and clients.

Lopez was hospitalized after experiencing a panic attack following the House of Representatives' order to transfer her from its custodial facility in Batasang Pambansa Complex to the Correctional Institution for Women.