Expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. was arrested Tuesday evening at his home in Dili, Timor-Leste, and is currently detained at the Ministry of the Interior compound.
Teves, accused of orchestrating the assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, has denied the charges, claiming political persecution and seeking asylum in Timor-Leste.
His arrest came despite a recent Timor-Leste court ruling rejecting Philippine extradition requests due to fears of torture or inhumane treatment.
Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta emphasized the country’s national interest, stating Teves is not eligible for asylum and urged swift judicial action.
Relations between Timor-Leste and the Philippines have improved, with the Philippines recently supporting Timor-Leste’s upcoming full ASEAN membership.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 28, 2025
