21-3-2025 (MANILA) The Philippines’ bid to secure the return of former parliamentarian Arnolfo Teves has been thwarted by Timor-Leste’s appellate judiciary, sparking a renewed commitment from Malacañang to pursue further legal channels.
The court’s unanimous ruling, unveiled through documentation shared by defence counsel Ferdinand Topacio, cited grave concerns over potential human rights violations. Their judgment specifically highlighted risks of “torture, inhuman and degrading or cruel treatment” should Teves be repatriated to face justice in his homeland.
The case centres on Teves’ alleged orchestration of multiple homicides, most notably the 2023 assassination of Roel Degamo, the then-governor of Negros Oriental, alongside several others. Teves was apprehended in Timor-Leste last March, following his flight from the Philippines.
Despite initial optimism when Timorese authorities granted the extradition request in June, as announced by the Department of Justice, the recent appeal outcome has dramatically altered the legal landscape.
Presidential spokesperson Claire Castro, addressing journalists at Malacañang, emphasised the administration’s unwavering resolve to secure justice for the purported victims. She revealed that Philippine justice officials had provided extensive assurances regarding Teves’ safety during potential court proceedings.
“The administration remains steadfast in its commitment to exhaust every available legal avenue,” Castro affirmed, indicating that fresh appeals would be lodged to demonstrate the imperative for Teves’ repatriation to face the charges against him.
