THE pre-trial for charges of multiple murder and frustrated murder against former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. began yesterday at the Manila Regional Trial Court.
Teves, who was charged in connection with the 2023 killing of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and nine others, appeared via video conferencing during the pre-trial of the case held at the Manila RTC Branch 51.
One of Teves’ lawyers, Andres Manuel, attended the pre-trial but did not give any interview to members of the media outside the courtroom.
Degamo’s lawyer Andrei Von Tagum said both parties, during the pre-trial, agreed on the schedule of hearings including on Teves’ bail petition.
During a pre-trial, parties to the case attempt to determine the issues, laws, or facts before the trial proper of the case. It also gives both parties the chance to inform the court of evidence — testimonial and material — that would be presented when the court starts the main trial.
Tagum said the court set the next hearing on September 5.
The court entered a not guilty plea early last month when Teves declined to enter a plea during his arraignment on the Degamo murder case.
