The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) presented former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo ‘Arnie’ Teves, Jr. on Friday with the latter acknowledging the justice system, even urging other fugitives to surrender themselves before NBI Director Jaime Santiago.
Speaking through his lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, Teves affirmed Santiago’s statements to the media that all his rights have been afforded to him, reflecting the basic tenets of the agency: nobility, bravery, and integrity.
“All basic human rights as guaranteed in the Constitution, all the rights of the accused and all norms of decency were observed by Director Santiago and his staff. The entire organization has been kind, decent, and helpful,” Topacio said.
Teves also had a message to other fugitives from justice, who have plans to submit themselves to authorities: “Surrender here to Director Santiago, and you would be assured of fair, impartial, and very decent treatment. Thank you.”
The NBI called for a press conference to disclose in detail the timeline of events leading to the arrest and eventual deportation of Teves from East Timor to the Philippines, citing all legal documents, including a Certificate of Handover from the Timor-Leste government.
The former lawmaker was temporarily detained at the NBI headquarters upon his arrival in the country on Thursday. Santiago said he will be turned over to the custody of the Bureau of Corrections later this Friday.
Teves expressed willingness to face the charges leveled against after spending two years in hiding. He is accused of murdering former Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and other victims in what was described as the Pamplona massacre in March 2023.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated.
