Screen grab from Cong. Degamo’s Facebook page.
Former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. was reportedly arrested last night by immigration authorities in Timor-Leste, marking a critical development in the ongoing pursuit of justice for the victims of the 2023 Pamplona Massacre, including slain Governor Roel Degamo.
According to a statement released by the family of Gov. Degamo, Teves’ arrest was due to his alleged status as an illegal alien. He reportedly lacked a valid Philippine passport and was subject to an Interpol red notice as well as a standing arrest warrant issued by the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ).
“This arrest is a significant step toward justice—not only for our family, but for the people of Negros Oriental and the entire nation,” the statement reads. “For over two years, our call has been clear and unwavering: those responsible for this heinous crime must be held accountable, no matter how far they run or how long they hide.”
On the morning of March 4, 2023, gunmen stormed the residence of Governor Roel Degamo in Pamplona, Negros Oriental, during a routine public service event where constituents had gathered to seek aid. The attack was swift and brutal, leaving ten people dead—including Degamo—and several others injured. Security footage of the massacre quickly circulated online, shocking the nation and sparking public outrage.
Within days, allegations began to surface linking Teves—who was out of the country at the time—to the masterminding of the attack. Despite repeatedly denying involvement, Teves refused to return to the Philippines, citing fears for his safety and what he called political persecution.
The Philippine House of Representatives later expelled Teves for “disorderly behavior” and refusal to return despite multiple summons. The DOJ eventually labeled the Teves clan and its armed affiliates as a “terrorist group,” further escalating the legal and political stakes.
Authorities had been tracking Teves’ movements across Southeast Asia for over a year, culminating in last night’s arrest in Timor-Leste. Legal experts believe the arrest strengthens the Philippines’ case for extradition, though formal processes are still underway.
“Let this serve as a reminder that no one is above the law,” the Degamo family said in their statement. “The arrest of Arnie Teves reaffirms the strength of international cooperation and our collective pursuit of justice.”
The Philippine government is expected to begin extradition proceedings shortly. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has previously said the DOJ remains committed to prosecuting those responsible “to the fullest extent of the law.”
As the legal process unfolds, the people of Negros Oriental and the victims’ families wait with cautious optimism. For them, the arrest marks a long-awaited moment in a harrowing saga that has cast a long shadow over their province.
“We now look forward to the proper legal proceedings that will bring lasting peace to our province and long overdue justice for my beloved Roel and the hundreds of others who suffered at the hands of the Teves Terrorist Group,” the statement concludes.