By Alec Go
House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Wednesday, May 10, warned Negros Oriental Rep. Arnie Teves that “another possible disciplinary action” maybe imposed against him if he refuses to return to the Philippines after his 60-day suspension.
In a statement, Romualdez called on Teves anew to “return home immediately and face the accusation against him” instead of evading investigation in the Philippines.”
“Should Cong. Arnie continue to defy the return to work order after the lapse of the 60-day period of his suspension, the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges may be constrained to reconvene and consider another possible disciplinary action against him,” Romualdez said.
“This is our recourse in order to preserve the dignity, integrity and reputation of the House of Representatives,” he added.
This followed the reported application for political asylum in Timor Leste by Teves, a move viewed “with great concern” by the House of Representatives, according to the House speaker.
“I discourage any attempt by our colleague, Cong. Arnie, to seek refuge in other country and abandon his sworn duty to serve as Member of the House of Representatives,” he said.
“I had repeatedly assured him that the House of Representatives will secure his personal safety upon his return to the Philippines,” he added.
– gb