Philippine Lawmaker Accused of Orchestrating Murder of Provincial Governor
(MENAFN) A Philippine lawmaker, Arnolfo Teves, has been accused of organizing the murder of Roel Degamo, the governor of Negros Oriental province in the central Philippines, along with eight others, in what has been described as one of the country's deadliest Political attacks in recent years. The shooting took place in Degamo's home, where gunmen wearing military-style uniforms shot and killed the governor and his companions. The audacious attack in the sugarcane-growing heartland of the Philippines has shocked the nation and led to a major investigation by the authorities.
Police have arrested 11 people in connection with the attack, and one suspect was killed in a shoot-out. The investigation has revealed that Teves, who represents a Negros Oriental district in the national Congress, was allegedly the mastermind behind the shooting. Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla told reporters that Teves could face charges for murder and illegal possession of firearms once a preliminary investigation is wrapped up. Teves, who is currently overseas, has denied any involvement in the murder.
The investigation has also revealed that Teves' longtime bodyguard, Marvin Miranda, allegedly recruited the shooters. Remulla has likened the crime to a movie, with Miranda playing the role of the director, producer of the props, and casting director. "Marvin was the director, producer of the props and casting director. He recruited the men," he said. "Congressman Teves was the producer or executive producer of the whole production."
Teves' brother, Henry Teves, was unseated as governor of Negros Oriental after the election commission declared in September that Degamo was the rightful winner of the 2022 election following a vote count. The Supreme Court upheld the decision in February. The murder of Degamo has been seen by many as a politically motivated attack, and the involvement of a lawmaker has raised concerns about the safety of politicians in the country.
Teves has been suspended from the House of Representatives for 60 days after failing to return home and report for work after his authority to travel abroad expired. The allegations against him have sent shockwaves through the political establishment in the Philippines, with many calling for a full investigation into the murder of Degamo and the involvement of Teves. The case has highlighted the dangers faced by politicians in the country, particularly in the run-up to elections. It remains to be seen what the outcome of the investigation will be and whether Teves will face charges for his alleged involvement in the murder.
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