The arraignment of former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. on murder charges has been postponed to July 14, his lawyer confirmed Monday.
Attorney Ferdinand Topacio said a motion to defer the arraignment was filed last week, citing Teves’ recent appendectomy as the reason for his absence in court. “The subject of the arraignment is not physically fit to attend the hearing personally,” Topacio stated.
Teves, who is currently recovering, may be discharged from the hospital by Monday or Tuesday, although he is reportedly still in some pain.
He faces multiple charges, including murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder, in connection with the 2023 assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and 10 others.
In addition, Teves is charged with illegal possession of firearms and explosives in a separate Manila case. He has refused to enter a plea in any of his hearings, prompting the courts to enter not guilty pleas on his behalf.
The Anti-Terrorism Council has previously designated Teves and several associates as terrorists due to alleged involvement in killings and acts of intimidation in Negros Oriental.