Teves hopes his murder cases will be resolved quickly
Roel Degamo (left) and Arnolfo Teves Jr.—Photos from Facebook/INQUIRER FILES
MANILA, Philippines — In his first public address since being deported from Timor-Leste, expelled lawmaker Arnolfo Teves Jr. on Friday expressed hope that the resolution of his murder cases will be expedited.
He said it during a press conference where the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) presented him before the media after arriving in the Philippines on Thursday night.
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According to Teves, former Negros Oriental 3rd district representative, he is somewhat glad that his return home allows him to now address the charges filed against him.
“This is my only request to the court—that the case be resolved quickly, because honestly, if the case is truly worked on, it will be finished in no time,” he said in Filipino.
“I believe and trust my lawyer, my conscience is clear. I just hope the process is quick so it can be over quickly,” he added.
Teves is facing multiple counts of murder and frustrated murder under the Revised Penal Code and is wanted in connection with the 2023 killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and others, also known as the Pamplona massacre.
When asked if he is ready to face Degamo’s wife, Negros Oriental 3rd district Representative-elect Janice Degamo, Teves said, “No problem, I can face anybody.”
When asked why he chose to stay in Timor-Leste, Teves said it was due to his fear for his life.
“I have been very consistent, even in our pleadings in court … my concern is really my life and my security,” he added.
He also clarified that he has felt comfortable since returning to the country. He thanked the NBI for making him feel safe and treating him well following his deportation from Timor-Leste.
Teves was deported by Timor-Leste after Timorese immigration authorities arrested him Tuesday evening at his residence in Dili.
According to the Timorese government, Teves was deported because he was deemed “a threat to national security” and to avoid being seen as a refuge for individuals fleeing international justice./mcm
