MANILA, Philippines — The Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) welcomed the deportation and return of former Negros Oriental lawmaker Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., reaffirming its commitment to pursuing justice against terrorism and politically motivated violence.

Teves was deported from Timor-Leste following what the ATC described as a “firm administrative action” by the Timorese government. His return to the Philippines marks a “crucial development in the nation’s fight against terrorism, impunity, and politically motivated violence,” the agency said.

Teves and 12 others were designated under ATC Resolution No. 43 (2023) as members of the Arnolfo A. Teves Jr. Terrorist Group (ATTG), pursuant to Section 25 of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

The ATC said the designation was based on a pattern of orchestrated killings and acts of violence in Negros Oriental, including the March 4, 2023 assassination of Governor Roel Degamo. Authorities said the attacks were deliberately planned to intimidate the public, undermine civil authority, and spread fear.

“The ATC emphasizes that this designation resulted from an extensive and evidence-based evaluation conducted in coordination with law enforcement and intelligence agencies,” the statement read.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) also acted on the designation by freezing the assets of the group under Resolution No. TF-69.

The ATC lauded Timor-Leste’s recognition of the case’s gravity and its implications for regional peace, saying the deportation reflects international cooperation and ASEAN solidarity in upholding the rule of law.

“Together with our partner agencies, we will ensure that those who threaten peace, order, and democracy are held accountable. Walang lugar ang terorismo sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the ATC said.