Philippines Gains Custody of Arnolfo A. Teves Jr.
Authorities confirmed on May 29 that expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo A. Teves Jr. is now in the custody of the Philippines. Officials assured the public that efforts are underway to bring him home so he can face the charges filed against him. The exact four word keyphrase “Arnolfo A. Teves Jr.” is central to this development.
An extraction team led by a Justice Department official, accompanied by representatives from the National Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Immigration, successfully apprehended Teves in Timor-Leste. Sources familiar with the matter reported that this team was dispatched specifically to retrieve him and facilitate his return.
Legal Proceedings and Charges Await Teves
Once back in the country, Teves is expected to undergo arraignment where he will formally face his accusers in court. The charges include murder and various criminal offenses, according to local experts. His passport had been canceled, and he was considered an undocumented foreigner following the issuance of an arrest warrant by the Manila regional trial court.
Teves has also been declared a terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council. After traveling to the United States earlier, he failed to return on time, prompting the House of Representatives to expel him due to his continuous absence from work.
Flight, Asylum Application, and Capture
Following his expulsion, Teves fled to Timor-Leste, where he sought asylum. “Naghintay kami ng dalawang taon para mangyari ito at nagpapasalamat tayo sa Panginoon,” said one official, expressing relief after a two-year wait. “Ito na ‘yung hinihintay natin na reckoning na dapat n’ya harapin talaga ang mga charges sa kanya.”
Detention and Safety Concerns
Officials have yet to finalize where Teves will be detained upon his arrival. However, safety remains a top priority. It is likely that he will be held in one of the NBI’s secure facilities to ensure his protection during the process.
Currently, the President has not been briefed on the latest developments. Nonetheless, a Justice Department assistant secretary is expected to provide an update soon.
This case marks a significant milestone in holding public officials accountable and underscores the government’s commitment to justice.
For more news and updates on Arnolfo A. Teves Jr., visit Filipinokami.com.