Detained former Negros Oriental lawmaker Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. is in need of major surgery, according to his legal counsel, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, following his hospitalization due to severe stomach pains on Tuesday.
Topacio said Teves was brought to a government hospital in the morning and underwent medical examinations that lasted until the afternoon. “The doctors therein have decided that Mr. Teves’ condition requires major surgery in another hospital with additional equipment and facilities,” he told reporters.
Government doctors have recommended Teves’ immediate transfer to St. Luke’s Medical Center in Bonifacio Global City for the procedure. The lawyer added that all trial courts handling Teves’ pending cases have already been notified of his condition.
Topacio declined to disclose specific medical findings, citing confidentiality.
Teves, who was deported from Timor-Leste on May 28, is currently detained at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. He faces multiple charges in connection with the 2023 Pamplona massacre, including 10 counts of murder, 14 counts of frustrated murder, and four counts of attempted murder. The charges stem from the brutal killing of then-Governor Roel Degamo and nine others.
