Photo: Arnolfo Teves Jr
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has swiftly initiated the process of freezing assets and properties belonging to individuals linked to the Teves and Maute groups, recently classified as terrorists.
During a press briefing at the Presidential Palace on Tuesday, Atty. Luis Warren, representing the AMLC, shed light on the crucial step taken. He elucidated that the freezing of assets and properties is in strict accordance with Section 23, coupled with Section 36 of The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
Warren emphasized that under the framework of this legislation, the AMLC is vested with the authority to issue an ex parte order for the freezing of assets, ensuring immediate action.
“The implementation of the freeze order was seamlessly integrated with the publication of the Teves and Maute groups’ designation as terrorists. The freeze order applies exclusively to the assets and accounts of the individuals specified in the ATC resolution,” Warren elaborated.
It was underscored that the scope of the freeze order does not encompass family members of the designated individuals, thereby safeguarding innocent parties from unintended consequences.
“It is important to note that only those individuals explicitly identified in the ATC resolution are subject to the freeze order. The order’s enforcement began promptly this morning, and banking institutions have been promptly informed. We are actively receiving status reports and compliance details,” Warren confirmed.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) subsequently offered insights into the rationale behind asset freezing as a measure against designated terrorists attempting to abscond with their financial holdings.
“In anticipation of an impending designation, an individual may be inclined to relocate assets potentially impacted by the designation. The designation serves as a provisional remedy and aligns with the legal provision of ex parte procedures,” articulated Justice Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty.
Justice Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano, speaking on behalf of the DOJ, clarified the status of Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves in the midst of this development.
“While he bears the designation of a terrorist, he is not officially categorized as a fugitive. This distinction is imperative as it pertains to criminal actions. A person attains fugitive status solely upon issuance of a warrant of arrest. Currently, Rep. Teves is designated as a terrorist, a designation that stands independently,” affirmed Clavano.
Clavano added, “The implications of the designation are directed solely towards the assets of the designees. In terms of potential arrests, the standard process of criminal action will ensue. This applies to any pending criminal cases under the jurisdiction of the DOJ, encompassing the possibility of indictment or the initiation of future cases.”
The asset freeze is a strategic maneuver intended to thwart any attempts by designated individuals to escape the ramifications of their actions. The expeditious actions of the AMLC underscore the unwavering commitment of the government to counteract terrorism and its financial underpinnings.
