MANILA — Former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, who is currently facing multiple murder charges, is showing slight signs of recovery a week after undergoing surgery, according to his legal counsel.
Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio said on Wednesday that Teves, who recently had an appendectomy at the Philippine General Hospital, has started eating soft food after nearly four days of being unable to eat orally.
“He can now feed himself small portions, and while he still experiences pain, it has lessened. His strength is gradually returning,” Topacio shared with reporters. He added that unless unexpected medical issues arise, Teves is expected to continue improving in the coming days.
Topacio also mentioned that their legal team has requested the postponement of court hearings related to Teves’ cases.
Teves is facing a series of charges, including murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder, in connection to the 2023 assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and 10 others. He is also linked to the 2019 killings of three individuals in the same province.
In addition, he is charged with illegal possession of firearms and explosives. Courts have entered not guilty pleas on his behalf after he refused to enter pleas himself.
The Anti-Terrorism Council has also designated Teves and several associates as terrorists, citing involvement in a string of killings and threats in Negros Oriental.