The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday confirmed that the Regional Trial Court of Manila City has issued a gag order enjoining all parties from discussing the merits of the murder case filed against expelled Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. and several others, in connection with the murder of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and nine others last March 4, 2023.
DOJ spokesman Jose Dominic Clavano said the DOJ welcomes the issuance of the gag order as this would stop the proliferation of propaganda and fake news in connection with the case.
“We would rather do this behind closed doors because the operational details involved in this case are very sensitive, so we welcome the gag order by the judge,” Clavano said.
“I think it is very prudent and diligent for him to issue such an order. We would comply with the order because we would rather battle it out in court,” the DOJ official added.
According to Clavano, it has been the position of the justice department that the details of the case should only be discussed in the proper forum which is the court.
With the issuance of the gag order, Clavano said all parties should refrain from discussing the case in social media, mainstream media and other venues outside the court.
“We are not allowed anymore to mention or discuss matters that go into the merits of the case. On our part, we trust and we respect that decision because we know the right process is through the court,” he said.
The murder case in connection with the Degamo killing is being tried before the sala of Manila RTC Branch 51 Presiding Judge Merianthe Pacita Zuraek.
The trial court had already issued an arrest warrant against Teves and other accused in the murder case.
Teves, who is now considered a fugitive, is currently in Timor Leste awaiting the Court of Appeals decision on the request of the Philippine government to extradite him.
