CNN Philippines correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to this report.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 15) — Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. has asked for a two-month leave from the House of Representatives, citing a “very grave security threat” to his life and family.
Teves made the appeal in a letter sent to House Speaker Martin Romualdez, documents released Wednesday showed.
“Rest assured that he will come back as soon as the threat will be dealt with accordingly under our laws, and with the aid of the government,” wrote Teves, who has yet to return from his United States trip.
The congressman – who has been tagged in cases of killings in his province – flew to the US late last month for medical treatment. The travel authority issued to him by the House, however, expired on March 9.
Teves’ camp earlier maintained that the lawmaker was not in hiding, and said he will return to the Philippines once concerns about his safety are addressed.
Romualdez had also urged his colleague to come home and clear his name amid allegations linking him to the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo.
READ: Negros Oriental solon denies involvement in Degamo murder
Due process
Earlier in the day, the House’s ethics committee said it will set a five-day deadline for Teves to explain his failure to return to the country despite the expiration of his travel authority.
“Susulat muna kami sa aming colleague na mag-explain bakit hindi niya magawa-gawa i-process yung kanyang expired travel authority. Might be on the next move, we will be hearing his side also,” said COOP NATCCO Party-list Rep. Felimon Espares, who chairs the panel.
“I think five days is enough for him to reply or might be baka umuwi siya rito,” he added.
[Translation: We’ll first write to our colleague to explain why he can’t process his expired travel authority. Might be on the next move, we will be hearing his side also. I think five days is enough for him to reply or maybe he’ll come home.]
Espares also said due process will be observed.
