The decision of Timor-Leste Court of Appeals rejecting the Philippine government’s bid to extradite former Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. is a setback for the ongoing investigation against the expelled lawmaker, according to Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro.
Teves has been accused of masterminding the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo in March 2023, and other crimes.
Teves has also been designated as a terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) in 2023 and is facing multiple criminal charges before the courts.
Castro admitted that the Philippine government was surprised over the Timorese court’s decision.
“Medyo nagulat po ang administrasyon, lalong-lalo na po ang DOJ (Department of Justice) patungkol po dito,” Castro said in a press briefing on Friday morning, March 21.
“Malaki po ang magiging impact po nito, considering na may mga diumanong biktima na nag-complain naman laban po kay dating Congressman Teves,” Castro said.
“Hanggang makakaya ng administrasyon, ilalaban po rin natin ito para po sa hustisya sa mga diumanong biktima,” she added.
Teves flew to Timor Leste in 2023 and sought political asylum, which was initially denied before the latest court ruling halted his extradition.
The Palace Press Officer questioned the reversal of an earlier decision that initially favored Teves’ extradition.
“Nagtaka rin po dahil sa pangalawang beses po ay talaga nag-grant po ‘yung petition natin for extradition,” she said.
According to Castro, the Philippine government has submitted all necessary evidence and legal documents to support the extradition request.
The DOJ has also assured the Timor-Leste court that Teves would not face the death penalty or any form of inhumane treatment if returned to the Philippines.
“Kahit naman po sa Constitution po natin ay bawal ‘yan,” Castro said.
“Noong sila po ay naglahad ng kanilang mga ebidensya, ang ating administrasyon, through DOJ, ipinakita po natin ang lahat ng mga ito ay hindi mangyayari sa ating administration,” she added.
Castro said President Marcos left the matter to the DOJ, which said they would appeal Timor Leste’s decision. (Argyll Geducos)
