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Advocates Philippines
Teves Refuses To Enter Plea, Court Enters 'Not Guilty' In Explosives Case
Photo credit: PNA
Former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves Jr. appeared before the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 12 on Thursday, June 5, where he was formally arraigned on charges of illegal possession of explosives. However, instead of entering a plea himself, Teves chose to exercise his right to remain silent.
“I respectfully invoke my right to remain silent,” he told the court. Following standard legal procedure, the court proceeded to enter a "not guilty" plea on his behalf.
The case stems from a 2023 raid on Teves’ residence in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, where authorities reported seizing firearms and explosive materials. While the controversy surrounding Teves has been in the headlines for some time, this arraignment marks a significant step forward in the legal proceedings tied to the discovery.
Though this case is separate from the high-profile charges previously linked to Teves, it adds to the growing list of legal challenges the former lawmaker is facing. His legal team has yet to issue a detailed public response to the arraignment.
The Manila RTC is expected to begin formal hearings in the coming months.
“I respectfully invoke my right to remain silent,” he told the court. Following standard legal procedure, the court proceeded to enter a "not guilty" plea on his behalf.
The case stems from a 2023 raid on Teves’ residence in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, where authorities reported seizing firearms and explosive materials. While the controversy surrounding Teves has been in the headlines for some time, this arraignment marks a significant step forward in the legal proceedings tied to the discovery.
Though this case is separate from the high-profile charges previously linked to Teves, it adds to the growing list of legal challenges the former lawmaker is facing. His legal team has yet to issue a detailed public response to the arraignment.
The Manila RTC is expected to begin formal hearings in the coming months.
Jun 5, 2025
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