PNP prepared to accommodate Teves in Camp Crame

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Marbil talks to reporters at the Quezon City Hall on Thursday, May 29, 2025. — Photo by Jason Sigales/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) assured that its custodial facility in Camp Crame is ready to accommodate expelled Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr.

The Timor-Leste government confirmed on Wednesday its decision to deport Teves, who was charged with nine others for the 2023 murder of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo.

“We are prepared to accommodate (him at) our PNP Custodial Center, in case they need it, as well as security along the route,” PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil said in a chance interview with reporters in Quezon City on Thursday.

“The PNP Custodial Center is fitting. It’s safe there,” he added.

The PNP chief further said the agency has yet to receive a request for assistance from the Department of Justice (DOJ).

READ: Teves deportation: DOJ mobilizes team to bring him back from Timor-Leste

The DOJ on Thursday mobilized a team with the Bureau of Immigration and the National Bureau of Investigation to coordinate with the Timor-Leste government to bring Teves home.

Timorese authorities arrested Teves on Tuesday, according to his son.

The expelled congressman has refused to return to the Philippines for two years, claiming political persecution. /das