Court enters not guilty plea for Teves; trial set July 29

The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 12 entered a not guilty plea on behalf of expelled Negros Oriental 3rd District representative Arnolfo Teves Jr.on Monday in one of his murder cases.

The court said Teves appeared via video conferencing, assisted by his legal counsels, and did not enter a plea during the arraignment, thus the court entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf.

Teves also invoked his right to remain silent during the proceedings.

According to the court, the initial trial for the case is set on July 29 and will also be held via video conferencing.

The Manila RTC Branch 12 added that Teves’ legal team is expected to file a petition for bail.

Last week, Teves also did not enter a plea during his arraignment for his terrorism cases at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.

Teves lawyer Ferdinand Topacio said the court entered a "not guilty" plea for his client.

Under the Rules of Court, the court will enter a 'not guilty' plea when the accused refuses or is unable to plead.

Teves is accused of being the mastermind behind the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo in March 2023 and nine others.