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MANILA, Philippines – Following his recent deportation from Timor-Leste, former Negros Oriental 3rd District Representative Arnulfo Teves Jr. will be subjected to the full force of the law, with no preferential treatment afforded, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). This assurance comes amidst intense public scrutiny surrounding Teves’s involvement in the high-profile killings of Negros Oriental officials, including the brutal murder of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and several others in March 2023.

The DOJ's firm stance aims to dispel any perceptions of leniency or special handling for Teves, who has been a person of interest in the Degamo killings since the incident. His deportation from Timor-Leste, where he had been attempting to seek refuge, marked a significant development in the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings.

A Long and Complex Investigation

The Degamo killings sent shockwaves throughout the Philippines, triggering a nationwide outpouring of grief and outrage. The subsequent investigation has been extensive and complex, involving numerous suspects, witnesses, and forensic evidence. Teves, initially denying any involvement, has been implicated by several witnesses and linked to the planning and execution of the attacks.

His attempts to evade justice by fleeing the country further complicated the case and drew criticism from various sectors. The Philippine government actively pursued his extradition, collaborating with international authorities to secure his return to face charges in the Philippines.

DOJ's Commitment to Justice

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has repeatedly emphasized the DOJ’s commitment to ensuring that all those responsible for the Degamo killings are brought to justice, regardless of their position or influence. The assurance of no special treatment for Teves underscores this dedication and reinforces the principle of equality before the law.

“We will treat him like any other respondent. There will be no special treatment,” Remulla stated firmly. “He will be given due process, but he will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

What's Next for Teves?

Now that Teves is back in the Philippines, he is expected to face formal charges related to the Degamo killings. He will be afforded the right to legal representation and the opportunity to defend himself against the accusations. The DOJ will present its case, relying on evidence gathered during the investigation.

The legal proceedings are expected to be lengthy and complex, potentially involving multiple trials and appeals. However, the DOJ remains resolute in its pursuit of justice for the victims and their families. The deportation of Teves and his subsequent return represent a crucial step forward in the quest for accountability and closure in this tragic case. The public awaits the outcome with bated breath, hoping that those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.

This case highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational crime and ensuring that fugitives cannot escape justice by seeking refuge in foreign territories. The Philippine government’s successful extradition of Teves serves as a testament to its commitment to upholding the rule of law and bringing perpetrators of heinous crimes to account.