Teves remains in Timor-Leste amid ongoing extradition proceedings

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed on Monday that former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., facing multiple murder charges in the Philippines, remains in Timor-Leste. Despite Timor-Leste’s Court of Appeal twice granting the Philippines’ extradition request (December 2024 and June 2024), Teves’ legal team has challenged the rulings, leading to protracted appeals.

Remulla stated, “He’s in Timor-Leste. He’s there,” adding that while the appeal process appears lengthy, assurances have been given that an update on the case is forthcoming. Teves’ initial challenge centered on procedural grounds related to the number of judges involved in the decision. This led the Timor-Leste court to request further evidence.

Teves is charged with multiple murders, including the March 2023 killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, and has been designated a terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council for alleged killings in Negros Oriental. He denies all charges.