THE Philippine government stands ready to receive former Negros Oriental Congressman Arnolfo A. Teves Jr. following his arrest in Timor-Leste, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced. The DOJ stated that it can facilitate the transfer of custody at any time, pending clarification on all matters related to Teves’ arrest.
“While we welcome the recent pronouncements from Timor-Leste indicating a renewed position that Mr. Teves should not remain in their territory, we await their action — whether he would simply be deported for being an undocumented foreigner or extradited forthwith pursuant to our pending application,” a DOJ statement read.
However, the DOJ clarified that the Philippine government has yet to receive any legal or official documents regarding the reasons for Teves’ arrest. It’s noteworthy that the Timor-Leste Court of Appeals recently rejected the Philippines’ extradition request for Teves.
“We continue to work closely with the appropriate authorities in Timor-Leste and to act the moment a formal process is initiated,” the DOJ added.
Beyond the cancellation of his passport by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Teves has also been designated a terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC).
He faces charges in connection with the murder of Governor Roel Degamo and nine others. The DOJ’s statement underscores the Philippine government’s determination to bring Teves back to the country to face these serious accusations. The exact timing of his repatriation remains dependent on the legal processes unfolding in Timor-Leste.
metrosundaily
