A committee of the House of Representatives will investigate Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo "Arnie" Teves Jr. whose second suspension for his absence from work has lapsed. The Committee on Ethics and Privileges will "acquire jurisdiction" over Teves, said Ako Bicol Rep. Raul Angelo "Jil" Bongalon, its vice chairman. Coop Natcco Rep. Felimon Espares, the committee's chairman, told reporters last week that the committee, "once no Congressman Arnie Teves is reporting in the House," might conduct a "meeting to acquire jurisdiction." The House in May adopted the committee's recommendation to suspend Teves for another 60 days or from May 31 to July 30, 2023, after the first one had lapsed. The House penalized Teves due to his refusal to come home from the US even after his official leave had expired.

Source: Manila Times August 01, 2023 17:17 UTC