MANILA, Philippines — Arnolfo Teves Jr., an expelled congressman from Negros Oriental, has been transferred to the National Bureau of Investigation's (NBI) detention facility within the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) compound in Muntinlupa following his deportation from Timor-Leste.

Teves was apprehended in Dili, Timor-Leste, on May 27, 2023, and was officially turned over to Philippine authorities on May 29.

NBI Deputy Director for Operations, Antonio Pagatpat, confirmed that the agency is in the process of returning the warrant for Teves' arrest to inform the court of his custody.

The detention facility, situated in Building 14, operates independently from BuCor and is under NBI management.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago stated that the facility is intended solely for the custody of detainees and emphasized that it adheres to standards that ensure no special treatment or torture occurs.

Teves will initially occupy a separate cell to facilitate his adjustment to the detention environment.

Teves faces numerous legal challenges, including charges of murder, frustrated murder, attempted murder, and illegal possession of firearms and explosives linked to the March 4, 2023, assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, which resulted in the deaths of ten individuals.

Upon his return, Teves was transported in a bulletproof vehicle, wearing a kevlar vest and helmet.

Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla confirmed that Teves will be presented in court to undergo booking processes related to the ongoing murder cases against him.

Remulla assured that all legal proceedings would uphold due process and fair trial rights.

Teves has expressed a desire for a rapid resolution to his legal cases, emphasizing his confidence in his defense team and his claim of a clear conscience.

During a media presentation, he noted the emotional impact of his return after two years away from his family, especially following the death of his father.

He stands accused in connection with multiple counts of murder and other charges, some dating as far back as 2019. The cases involve allegations that he was the mastermind behind the killings due to political rivalries exacerbated by his brother’s competition with Degamo.

Legal processes regarding Teves' return and upcoming trial have been detailed by officials, including Malacañang's assurance that all deportation procedures were legally followed.

Presidential Statements highlighted the government's commitment to justice and accountability, naming Teves' situation as a response to lawlessness.

Teves' attorney, Ferdinand Topacio, stated that they are fully prepared for the legal proceedings and have been compiling evidence and strategizing since his return to the Philippines.

Meanwhile, members of the government continue to assert that due legal processes were observed during the arrest and transfer of Teves back to the country.

Immigration officials confirmed that protocols were followed during the entire process, ensuring that all legal requirements were met while handling Teves' return.