The Manila Regional Trial Court yesterday approved the release of an arrest warrant for former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo "Arnie" Teves Jr. and several others in relation to the death of provincial governor Roel Degamo.

The decision followed the admission of amended criminal information by Presiding Judge Merianthe Pacita Zuraek of Branch 51, based on the Department of Justice's resolution finding probable cause against the respondents.

The court found probable cause for the issuance of a warrant of arrest against Arnolfo Teves Jr., also known as "Arnie," "Big Boss," "Big Boss Idol," "Boss Idol," "Idol," "Kalbo," Angelo Palagtiw, alias "Angelou," "Angelo Valiente," "Gelo," "Gelou," one alias sister of Angelo Palagtiw, and Capt. Lloyd Cruz Garcia II.

The court also issued a commitment order for accused Nigel Electona, alias "Najel" and "Naijel," to be taken to Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

The court granted the motions filed by the State Prosecutors, admitting the Amended Information for various criminal cases.

The arraignment and pre-trial conference have been rescheduled to 4 October 2023, at 1:30 p. m.

Justice Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano recently confirmed that charges were filed against Teves with the Manila RTC.

The Supreme Court had approved the transfer of jurisdiction to the Manila RTC, with the charges officially lodged on 18 August.

Teves Jr., who is currently abroad and has not returned, has been implicated as the mastermind behind the high-profile killing of Degamo and other victims.

Heavily armed men wearing camouflage uniforms attacked the governor's residence in Pamplona on 4 March while Governor Degamo was meeting with beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).