Teves transferred to New Bilibid after return from Timor-Leste

Former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves Jr. was transferred to Building 14 of New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City on Friday afternoon following his return from Timor-Leste and a stay at the NBI headquarters in Pasay City.

Teves, who is accused of masterminding the killing of former Governor Roel Degamo and nine others in 2023, was accompanied by his mother and legal counsel Atty. Ferdinand Topacio during his transfer.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago said Teves will be given a solo room at Building 14 to help him acclimate to detention conditions, emphasizing that this is not VIP treatment but rather a process of adjustment.

Santiago also noted that President Marcos Jr.'s diplomatic efforts led Timor-Leste to repatriate Teves, ensuring he faces charges in the Philippines.

Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, widow of the slain governor, expressed her desire for marathon hearings to expedite the trial, citing concerns about prolonged legal proceedings similar to those in the Ampatuan case.

Teves himself has requested a speedy trial, stating that if the case is properly addressed, it should not take long. He was deported from Timor-Leste where he sought asylum and returned to face charges.