The Department of Justice (DOJ) will appeal the Timor-Leste Court of Appeals’ decision rejecting the Philippine government’s request to extradite former Negros Oriental representative Arnolfo Teves Jr.
DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla expressed disappointment with the ruling, suggesting corruption might have influenced the decision and emphasizing that the government would exhaust all legal remedies.
The Timor-Leste court based its decision on witness recantations, claiming they were coerced into implicating Teves, and on allegations of unlawful detention and threats against Teves’ secretary.
Teves faces multiple charges, including murder and attempted murder, related to the March 2023 assassination of Governor Roel Degamo.
Despite the setback, Degamo’s widow remains hopeful for Teves’ extradition and is concerned about potential attempts by Teves’ associates to flee justice.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 22, 2025
