Vidal remains in ICU

CEBU, Philippines - The archbishop emeritus of Cebu, Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, remains at the intensive care unit of Perpetual Succour Hospital where he is confined for several days now because of pneumonia.

Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, however, said that his health condition is improving.

“I visited him this (yesterday) morning. I tried to cheer him up by saying we are trying to gather his batch mates in first communion at the last International Eucharistic Congress to be here and visit him. He’s smiling,” Palma yesterday told reporters.

Palma said that the retired Church official has assured him that he is recovering from his illness.

“He said I am improving, doing fine. Before malipong siya og mulihok but now he’s better and improving,” Palma said relaying his conversation with the Cardinal.

Monsignor Joseph Tan, Cebu Archdiocese spokesperson, said Vidal’s confinement at the ICU does not necessarily mean that his condition is serious and critical.

“The sisters at Perpetual Succour are reserving a room intended for him. This is a privilege since he is our archbishop emeritus. So that nurses and doctors can attend to his medical needs,” Tan said.

Nonetheless, Palma, Tan and the entire religious community appeal for prayers for Vidal’s fast recovery.

Vidal, 83, served as archbishop of Cebu from 1982 until his retirement in 2011. (FREEMAN)