Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 24) — An assurance of government security – even from the president himself – is not enough for suspended Negros Orienal Rep. Arnolfo ‘Arnie’ Teves to come home and face accusations on his involvement in the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo.
“Ngayon, paano ako maa-assure na mabubuhay ako. Eh paano pa ‘pag inside job? Disgrasya ako lalo, ‘di ba?” Teves told CNN Philippines’ The Source, adding that even the heavily-guarded Degamo was killed.
[Translation: Now, how will they assure that I will be alive? What if it’s an inside job? The more I would be in danger, right?]
Teves was tagged as one of the masterminds behind the brazen killing of Degamo and eight others on March 4 in the governor’s compound.
He has denied involvement, saying he has nothing to gain from it.
The lawmaker insisted he will not return to the country over fears for his life. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself has said Teves will be provided with security.
“Itanong niyo sa kanila sinong nagbantay kay Degamo. ‘Di ba sandamakmak na army, may pulis pa, anong nangyari sa kanya ngayon?” he pointed out.
[Translation: Asked them who guarded Degamo. A bunch of army and police, but look what happened to him?]
Teves said the all those surrounding Degamo should also be investigated.
The suspended lawmaker has been out of the country since he flew to the United States late-February. His travel authority issued by the House of Representatives expired on March 9.
