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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Sec Remulla to ex-Rep Teves: 'Stop seeking international help, return to Philippines to face charges in court'

Sec Remulla to ex-Rep Teves: 'Stop seeking international help, return to Philippines to face charges in court'

Published Jun 12, 2024 10:26 am

Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla on Wednesday, June 12, asked expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo “Arnie” A. Teves Jr. to stop seeking international intervention for the cases the fugitive is facing in the Philippines.

“Instead of dilly dallying things, Teves should just face the court of law and answer the charges fair and square,” Remulla said in a statement.

The Manila regional trial court (RTC) has issued an arrest order against Teves on the multiple murder and other criminal charges in connection with the March 4, 2023 shootings in Pamplona, Negros Oriental where 10 persons were killed including provincial governor Roel Degamo.

Teves was arrested in Timor-Leste based on a red notice issued by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). 

He is now in custory of local authorities in Timor-Leste where he is challenging the Philippine government's plea for his extradition.

Remulla's statement was issued after learning that Teves has sought the help of the United Nations, Amnesty International, other human rights groups and even Pope Francis on claims of persecution and false accusations. 

Remulla said the tactics employed by Teves and his counsel Ferdinand Topacio were meant to delay the prosecution of the cases the expelled legislator is facing.

“Teves is a designated terrorist and fugitive from justice. He is also facing grave charges such as multiple murder and all of that is a reality Topacio and his client should face. Until then, we cannot recognize anything they say unless they present themselves in court,” Remulla stressed.

Thus, he urged Topacio to convince Teves to return to the Philippines.

“Prove us wrong that you are not merely employing tactics intended to delay or circumvent the Rule of Law by presenting 'real' and 'existing' proof that Teves' life is in danger, otherwise, submit yourselves to Philippine jurisdiction, time is of the essence knowing that there are victims crying for justice,” Remulla told Topacio.

In a letter that allegedly came from Teves and has been circulating, the expelled legislator stated:

“I am being politically persecuted: charged with false accusations and even presumed guilty before trial.

“You all know the reality in the Philippines, please do not send me there. I do not want to be killed. Please save my life.”

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