The Department of Justice (DOJ) has addressed recent media reports claiming that former Congressman Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, Jr. was allegedly acquitted in the 2019 murder case involving Miguel Lopez Dungog.

The DOJ categorically stated that it has not received any official court order confirming the reported acquittal.

“Until an official and authenticated copy of the court’s ruling is formally served on the prosecution, the DOJ cannot verify or confirm the accuracy of these reports,” the agency said.

Justice Spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez added, “Even assuming that Teves was acquitted in the Dungog case, he will not be released because he remains lawfully detained under other pending criminal cases.”

These include multiple murder charges currently before the Regional Trial Courts of Manila, including high-profile cases linked to the assassination of the late Governor Roel Degamo.

The DOJ assured the public that once the prosecution receives the official court order, it will immediately act on the ruling and avail of all appropriate legal remedies under the law.

The public was urged to rely only on official pronouncements and verified information.