Teves to return to PH on Wednesday —Remulla

Suspended Negros Oriental Representative Arnie Teves Jr. may finally return to the Philippines on Wednesday, May 17, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said Tuesday, citing a “reliable source”.

“As was stated to me by my source who I consider to be a reliable source. He may have access to flight data into the country and is usually a very reliable source for those who come in and out of the country,” Remulla told reporters in a media briefing.

According to the Justice Secretary, Teves’ country of origin remains unclear, but he may be coming home from Timor Leste, where his bid for political asylum was previously rejected.

“He can be in Timor Leste or another country, but I think it will be from Timor Leste. I think that the countries by which he can enter are already very limited considering that he’s already on Interpol notice and things are becoming more difficult for Mr. Teves to go around. At least, that’s what I was told by my reliable source,” he added.

Teves, who Remulla has said appears to be the "main mastermind" behind the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others, has refused to return to the country, citing security concerns. 

Remulla said the Philippine National Police (PNP) is now under alert to secure the lawmaker upon his expected arrival.

“Walang arrest warrant. Law enforcement agencies have been placed on alert so he can be secured properly. So we would not be surprised by the arrival.”

Remulla welcomed Teves’ return describing it as “well and good”, saying this means the case against him can now proceed. 

“It means he can answer the process of law. If a case is filed against him tomorrow then it can be immediately served to him so the proceedings can run accordingly and he can file his counter-affidavit. The cases can be resolved by the panel of prosecutors based on his counter-affidavit,” he added.

Remulla on Monday said the filing or murder cases against Teves has been delayed after six to seven suspects who are also witnesses have lawyered up and refused to speak about the matter. —VAL, GMA Integrated News