Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 24) — Suspended Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves said Monday he has proof the firearms and explosives seized by authorities in his property in March were only planted to link him to terrorist groups.
“We can prove to you na ang daming planted na evidence d’yan (We can prove there are a lot of planted evidence there),” Teves told CNN Philippines’ The Source. “Pagdating sa korte makikita natin ‘yan (You’ll see it in court).”
Last month, authorities raided four properties owned by the family of Teves after he was tagged as a mastermind behind the killing of Negros Orienal Gov. Roel Degamo.
Officials said they seized various firearms and explosives in his property.
Teves denied owning the seized items.
“December pa lang tsaka January 11 or 12 nagsalita na ako na ire-raid ‘yung property ko. Sino namang t*nga maglalagay or magiiwan ng kahit anong gamit sa bahay n’ya kung alam n’yang ire-raid,” he pointed out.
[Translation: Since December and January 11 or 12 I already said my property will be raided. What kind of stupid person will put or leave anything in his house if he already knows there will be a raid?]
He claimed one of those involved in the raid told him that they only received orders from two top officials.
Teves said he eyes legal action on this allegation.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said preliminary steps have begun to designate Teves as a terrorist.
He said the anti-terrorism law covers activities that led to the assassination of Degamo, like recruitment, financing, and purchase and distribution of firearms.
“Paano n’yo sisimulan yung proseso na hindi pa nga ako guilty, di ba?” Teves asked. “Ang mali pa dito, wala ng rule of law eh. Rule na ng boss.”
[Translation: How will you start the process when I’m not yet found guilty? What’s also wrong here is that there is no rule of law. Only rule of the boss.]
