By Alec Go
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) said its instruction to its employees on the arrival of suspended lawmaker Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. is part of its protocol in monitoring individuals involved in high profile cases.
The statement came after Teves alleged in a social media post that there is an order from authorities to “intercept” him when he arrives in the country. He said the order was issued even before charges were filed against him.
“The BI wishes to clarify that such instruction is merely a part of the BI’s protocols in monitoring individuals who are subject of high profile cases,” read the BI statement.
“Coordination with local law enforcement agencies is crucial in the proper implementation of BI procedures,” he added.
Teves alleged that the order to intercept him is an obvious act of “political persecution” and against his rights.
“Ipalagay na natin for the benefit of the doubt may kaso ako. Still, I am innocent until proven guilty. Hindi ako dapat i-intercept, hindi ako dapat huliin, at hindi ako dapat ikulong,” he said.
“Dito natin makikita ang pag-aabuso nila sa akin at mas malala pa rito, mayroon silang masamang balak sa aking pagkatao at sa aking buhay,” he added.
The BI noted that its functions do not include arresting Filipino nationals.
The BI, however, said the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group requested on Thursday to expedite the arrival formalities of Teves “as they will be providing security assistance to ensure his security and safety.”
Teves has been tagged as the mastermind on the killing of former Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo. The suspended lawmaker earlier denied involvement in the case.
He was suspended by the House of Representatives for 60 days in late March due to his continued absence and for staying abroad despite the expiration of his travel authority.
He has been subject to calls, even from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to return home and face the charges against him and clear his name. – gb