The Anti Terrorism Council (ATC) has designated suspended Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnie Teves and 12 other individuals, who were allegedly members of his armed group, as terrorists.

Under Resolution No. 43 dated July 26 and signed by ATC chairperson and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the ATC also designated Teves' brother, former Negros Oriental governor Pryde Henry Teves and the following individuals as terrorists:

1. Marvin Miranda
2. Rogelio Antipolo
3. Rommel Pattaguan
4. Winrich Isturis
5. John Louie Gonyon
6. Dahniel Lora
7. Eulogio Gonyon Jr.
8. Tomasino Aledro
9. Nigel Electona
10. Jomarie Catubay
11. Hannah Mae Sumero Oray

According to the council, it found "probable cause warranting the designation of Cong. Teves. Jr. and his armed group hereinafter referred to as the "Teves Terrorist Group", a terrorist group of persons, organizations or associations for violation of the ATA".

Teves and his group have violated the following sections under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 :

• Section 4 for committing terrorism
• Section 6 for planning, training, preparing, and facilitating the commission of terrorism
• Section 10 for recruitment to and membership in a terrorist organization
• Section 12 for providing material support to terrorists.

"Based on the investigation of various law enforcement agencies, it was established that Cong. Teves Jr. and his group has an organizational structure showing a strict command and control mechanism," the order reads.

According to the council, Teves is the leader and main mastermind of the group while Pryde Henry Teves and Nigel Electona, and others are the ones who provide material support.

In March, three counts of murder complaints in connection to the killings perpetuated in Negros Oriental back in 2019 were filed against Teves.