Timor Leste affirms Teves extradition

Metro Manila, Philippines — Timor Leste has reaffirmed its decision to have former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves returned to the Philippines, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said on Thursday, Dec. 5.

Teves, wanted for the murder of former Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and eight others, is seeking political asylum in the Southeast Asian neighbor.

“We expected no less other than a second grant of extradition by Timor Leste which only affirms the stance of the PH government that there is merit in the request and that they made the right decision the first time around,” the DOJ said in a statement.

“Fortunately, the judicial system of Timor Leste Court has been consistent with the tenets of fair play and justice considering the positive development in this case,” it added.

The DOJ said Teves has 30 days to appeal the ruling. The move to bring him home will be determined once resolved.

In September, the DOJ said Teves’ legal team sought to reverse the court decision to extradite him.

The expelled lawmaker cited procedural grounds, in particular the number of judges that issued the ruling.

Teves is facing 10 counts of murder, 12 counts of frustrated murder, and four counts of attempted murder before a Manila court.

NewsWatch Plus reached out to Teves' counsel Ferdinand Topacio for comment.