Teves now undocumented alien
By J.Lo
"His right to travel can be impaired as his case involves public safety…his actions as well as of his group indeed created fear and intimidation of the local population and government of Negros Oriental, undermining public safety," decision read, Manila court has ordered cancellation of passport of expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr., who is wanted in the country for multiple murder.
Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 51 Judge Merianthe Pacita Zuraek issued order, saying prosecution had established Teves "is fugitive from justice," Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed.
Court said there is basis for Department of Foreign Affairs to cancel Teves' passport.
In 14-page decision, RTC denied Teves' motion to oppose prosecution's motion to cancel his passport, saying hat he is "not entitled to relief from court" as it has not yet acquired jurisdiction over his case.
Teves is facing murder charges over assassination of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo on March 4, 2023.
He is also facing several other charges in connection with series of killings in 2019.
DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla reiterated government's commitment to uphold rule of law and ensure "all individuals, regardless of their status, are held accountable for their actions."
Remulla had earlier said Teves is in Timor-Leste and is believed to be seeking asylum, although his chances are not good.
Teves' legal counsel Ferdinand Topacio would exhaust all legal remedies to reverse court ruling
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