DOJ Freezes Assets of Embattled Rep. Arnolfo Teves

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has blocked Arnolfo Teves’ assets as the opening action under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 in response to the beleaguered politician’s identification as a terrorist. According to Mico Clavano, a spokesman for the DOJ, this asset freeze is merely a preventative measure for future actions the agency may take against the named person.

Resolution No. 43 of the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) named Teves and 12 other people, including his brother Pryde Henry, suspected members of the “Teves Terrorist Group.” Several slayings in Negros Oriental, including the death of former governor Roel Degamo in March, are allegedly the work of this organisation.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) is managing the asset freezing, and according to Clavano, the procedure should be finished soon. In addition to asset freezing, the law also mentions proscription, which entails designating a group as a terrorist organisation. Arrest warrants may be issued based on potential prescription procedures held in the Court of Appeals.

When asked about the likelihood that the ATC would file a proscription case against the “Teves Terrorist Group,” Clavano declined to reveal any specific government tactics, stressing that several options are being considered.

PCol Ronan Claravall, the provincial director of the Negros Oriental Police, stated that when the arrest order is issued, local authorities will be fully equipped to carry it out. He voiced his belief in the national headquarters and partner agencies’ assistance with the operation.