BACOLOD CITY – Pamplona, Negros Oriental Mayor Janice Degamo has hailed the return of former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. to the Philippines as a triumph for justice.
Degamo thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Timor-Leste authorities for their actions in ensuring Teves’ departure from Timor-Leste and his subsequent arrival in the country.
The mayor shared a video of Teves’ departure from Timor-Leste on Thursday, May 29, a day after he was arrested by Timor-Leste immigration authorities at his residence in the country on Tuesday night, May 28.
“Today, has been a truly emotional day for our family as we witness a powerful reminder that while justice may take time, it never forgets,” Mayor Degamo stated on social media as she followed the developments.
She underscored the unwavering commitment of President Marcos and his Cabinet, saying, “Their commitment has never faltered, and today is proof that when the government stands firm for what is right, justice prevails.”
Mayor Degamo also lauded Timor-Leste’s firm stance against harboring fugitives, particularly those accused of heinous crimes such as the Pamplona Massacre. “This is not just a legal issue—it is a moral one,” she said.
“For over two years, Arnie Teves evaded justice despite being formally charged for the brutal assassination of my husband, Gov. Roel Degamo, and nine innocent others. His return marks a crucial moment in our long fight for accountability,” she stressed.
She also thanked Timor-Leste authorities for their courage and clarity in declaring that harboring fugitives, especially those wanted for heinous crimes like the Pamplona Massacre, is unacceptable. “This is not just a legal issue, it is a moral one,” she said.
Looking forward to Teves’ day in court, Mayor Degamo declared, “This is a victory not just for our family, but for every Filipino who dreams of a safer, fairer, and more peaceful nation.”
Teves was tagged as the alleged mastermind in the murder of Gov. Degamo and nine civilians in March 2023.
Mayor Degamo thanked other agencies that have continued to support the fight for what is right. “Know that your tireless work and courage brought us to this moment. You stood with us even when the road was long and even when threats loomed,” she said.
She believes that the return of Teves is a major step towards their fight for truth and accountability.
“This is not just about one man’s arrest. This is about standing up to a culture of impunity that for too long has persisted in our country,” the mayor said, adding that it is about sending a message that no one is above the law and that evil will never triumph.
She is hoping that while Teves is finally in Philippine custody, those who have suffered will have the courage to come forward and share their stories.
“Today is the first day of a new Negros Oriental,” she concluded.
