DILG on Teves arrest: PH justice system working

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan, Philippine News Agency

Former Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. is presented to the media at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) headquarters in Pasay City on Friday (May 30, 2025). (PNA photo by Ben Pulta)

MANILA – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday affirmed that the Philippine justice system is working, citing the arrest of former congressman and alleged terrorist group leader Arnulfo Teves Jr. as proof of the government’s commitment to uphold the rule of law.

“This sends a clear message: justice is patient, persistent, and absolute. No one is above the law,” DILG said in a statement.

It noted that the arrest fulfilled President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to bring Teves back to face charges stemming from the March 2023 assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others.

“As Chair of Task Force Degamo, the Department of the Interior and Local Government sees this arrest as a strong message that our government will not stop until justice is served. This is the result of years of coordinated effort across government, guided by the priorities set by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. This arrest reflects the determination of our law enforcement agencies to track down and bring back those who attempt to evade justice,” the DILG added.

The department worked closely with the Department of Justice, Department of Foreign Affairs, and international counterparts to ensure Teves’ deportation from Timor-Leste was handled properly.

“We also sincerely thank the Ministry of the Interior of Timor-Leste for their support. This shows how important international cooperation is in making sure those who break the law are held accountable,” it stated.