Suspended Representative Arnolfo Teves of Negros Oriental's 3rd District made a startling revelation on Friday, alleging a directive instructing immigration officers to intercept him immediately upon his arrival in the Philippines.
In a video posted on his Facebook page, Teves expressed his surprise at the timing of this order, as it was issued prior to any charges being filed against him.
"Ito pala ang totoong rason kung bakit nila ako gustong umuwi. May order ngayon na kapag ako ay dumating, ako ay ii-intercept. Ang nakakapagtaka, lumabas itong order na 'to bago pa sila nag-file ng kaso laban sa 'kin. Ito ay halatang political persecution at pang-aabuso ng aking karapatang pangtao," said the suspended congressman.
The video showcased the purported order, which mandated all personnel to remain on high alert and closely monitor Teves' arrival. It was attributed to Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco and further emphasized the need for officers to coordinate with law enforcement authorities.
Teves stressed his presumption of innocence until proven guilty, asserting that he should not be intercepted.
"Palagay na nating may kaso ako [but] still I am innocent until proven guilty. Hindi ako dapat i-intercept, hindi ako dapat hulihin at hindi ako dapat ikulong," he added.
'Part of protocol'
Following Teves' claims, the Bureau of Immigration released a statement seeking to clarify the situation.
According to the BI, such instructions are merely part of their protocols when monitoring individuals involved in high-profile cases.
"The BI wishes to clarify that such instruction is merely a part of the BI's protocols in monitoring individuals who are subject to high profile cases. Coordination with local law enforcement agencies is crucial in the proper implementation of BI procedures," the statement read, "Arresting Filipino nationals is not within the scope of the agency."
The Bureau of Immigration also disclosed that the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group had requested expedited arrival formalities for Teves, should he return to the country, in order to guarantee his security and safety.
The suspended Negros Oriental's 3rd district Representative has earlier denied the reports claiming his return to the Philippines on May 17, Wednesday, dismissing them as "fake news".
These reports were initially sparked by remarks made on May 16 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary, Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla, who cited a supposedly reliable source.
Teves has been out of the country since February 28 and is tagged as the alleged mastermind behind the assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo on March 4.
Fearing for his safety, he has refused to return home to the Philippines.
In an attempt to seek asylum, Teves applied to Timor-Leste earlier this month, but his application was rejected.
