• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
With the suspension for 60 days of Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves for misconduct, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has assumed post of Negros Oriental legislative caretaker, effective March 23 until May 22 this year.
The House Committee on Ethics and Privileges had earlier recommended the suspension of Teves for failing to return to the country and report for work despite the expiration of his travel authority since March 9.
Teves, who was last reported to be in the United States for supposed medical treatment, has refused to come home due to alleged “serious threats” to his life.
Romualdez assured the people of Negros Oriental that peace and order has been restored in their province, particularly the 3rd District.
The House is currently on Lenten break and will resume sessions on May 8, 2023.
Teves was implicated in the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and eight others on March 4, an allegation which he strongly denied.*
