THE search for the expelled Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. has intensified following confirmation from the Department of Justice (DOJ) that former senator Manny Pacquiao had a chance encounter with the lawmaker in Timor- Leste.
“We are aware that he was indeed in Timor Leste. We also obtained a statement from former Senator Manny Pacquiao’s camp, clarifying that this was a chance encounter and not a prearranged meeting at the airport,” stated Justice Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano.
Clavano issued this statement in response to a video circulating on social media, showing Teves hugging Pacquiao upon their arrival at the airport.
He emphasized that the meeting between the former senator and Teves in Timor-Leste was coincidental and not preplanned.
Intelligence reports received by the DOJ indicate that Teves, a designated terrorist, has been constantly moving between different locations since arrest warrants were issued against him.
Specifically, he was reported shuttling between Cambodia and Timor-Leste, allegedly paying warlords hefty amount in exchange for protection.
The Anti-Terrorism Council (ACT) has recently designated Teves along with several others as terrorists.
A regional trial court in Manila has also authorized the release of a warrant for Teves’ arrest, along with several other respondents, in connection with the death of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and several civilians on March 4.
