The Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 12 yesterday entered a “not guilty” plea for ex-Negros Oriental Representative Arnie Teves in one of his murder cases.

According to the court, Teves appeared via video conferencing, assisted by his legal counsels, and did not enter a plea during the arraignment.

The court then 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 for July 29 and will also be held via video conferencing.

The court 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.

According to Teves lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, 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 2023 and nine others. (ABS-CBN News)