House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday said he has talked with Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo 'Arnie' Teves who refused to come home to the country due to the fear for his and his family's safety.
In a statement, Romualdez said Teves called him through the phone from an "undetermined location".
"I assured him that the Speaker, as the political and administrative leader of the House of Representatives, will exert all efforts to ensure the personal safety of all members," he said.
Romualdez said that he had already instructed the House Sargeant-at-Arms to work with law enforcement agencies and make the necessary security arrangements for the Negros Oriental Congressman's return.
The House Speaker said he reiterated to Teves that he needs to return and report in the House, as his travel authority abroad has already expired.
In his travel clearance, Teves is permitted to leave from February 28 to March 9 for his medical treatment in the United States.
"Gusto rin naming marinig sa Kongreso ang panig niya. Kung may kaso man siyang kailangan harapin, dapat niya itong harapin. Dito sa loob ng bansa, at hindi sa labas," he said.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin 'Boying' Remulla first assured that Teves can return safely in the country.
Teves is facing three counts of murder over the killings perpetuated in Negros Oriental back in 2019.
He is also being linked to the brutal murder of former Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo. The arrested suspects earlier pointed him as the alleged mastermind who ordered Degamo's killing.
