Manila court starts pre-trial of Teves

MANILA, Philippines — A Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Manila has started the pre-trial of expelled lawmaker Arnolfo Teves Jr. in relation to the killing of the late Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and nine other people in 2023.

Teves attended the hearing at the RTC Branch 51 via video teleconference on Aug. 20, according to ABS-CBN. His counsel, Andres Manuel, was present in the courtroom.

Private prosecutor Andrei Bon Tagum also attended to represent Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Janice Degamo, the late governor’s widow.

Teves previously held the 3rd District seat in the House of Representatives.

The court, which is handling the multiple murder, frustrated murder and attempted murder charges against Teves and several other suspects, will hold its next hearing on Sept. 5.

Teves is currently detained at the facility of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

Teves had earlier refused to enter a plea on the charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives and for terrorism financing, prompting RTC branches in Manila and Quezon City to enter a “not guilty” plea.

The Anti-Terrorism Council has designated Teves as a terrorist for alleged involvement in the Negros Oriental killings.

Teves was flown back to the Philippines following his arrest by immigration authorities in Timor-Leste in May.