The Philippine National Police’s (PNP) recommendation to include former Negros Oriental Governor Pryde Henry Teves in the multiple murder cases involving his brother, dismissed Negros Oriental lawmaker Arnolfo Teves Jr., does not come as a surprise, according to Justice Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano.
This case is related to the 2023 killing of former Governor Roel Degamo and nine others.
In an exclusive interview with Manila Standard, Clavano emphasized that they will “let the evidence speak for itself.” He further explained, “If there is sufficient evidence to implicate Pryde Teves, then that will happen.”
The Department of Justice (DOJ) said it remains focused on securing the return of the former lawmaker as they continue efforts to bring him back from Timor Leste.
PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Chief Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III submitted a complaint to the DOJ yesterday, seeking to build a case against Pryde and nine other individuals.
This complaint will be reviewed to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with a preliminary investigation, in line with DOJ Circular No. 20.
The PNP earlier asked the DOJ to include the former Negros Oriental governor Pryde.
PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Director MGen. Nicolas Torre III stated that, alongside the former governor, nine other individuals should also be included in the case for allegedly conspiring to murder Degamo and the other victims.
“There was new evidence uncovered, so we added it to help our prosecution prepare for court,” Torre explained.
He declined to provide further details pending the DOJ’s evaluation of the case.Torre also dismissed any political motivations behind the move, despite Pryde Henry Teves currently running for governor of Negros Oriental.
“I don’t think it will affect his eligibility or qualifications,” Torre said.
He acknowledged that it would be natural for Teves and his supporters to claim that the complaint is politically motivated, but emphasized, “They have the opportunity to respond. It’s up to them how they take it.”
On Monday, February 17, Torre submitted additional documents to the DOJ, seeking a case review by state prosecutors. The PNP-CIDG’s recommendation was made under DOJ Circular No. 20, which requires a “reasonable certainty of conviction” before a complaint can be filed in court, not merely “probable cause.”
Vince Lopez