Remulla seeks Timor-Leste’s continued cooperation in repatriating Teves

Arnolfo Teves Jr. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Justice Sec. Jesus Crispin Remulla personally urged top officials of Timor Leste to continue cooperating with the Philippines in bringing home expelled Negros Oriental 3rd district Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. to face his charges.

According to a statement from the Department of Justice on Wednesday, Remulla paid a state visit to Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta and top officials on October 1.

During their meeting, Remulla expressed hope that the government of Timor Leste would maintain its cooperation with the Philippines in facilitating Teves’ return.

READ: Timor Leste Court approves PH extradition request vs Teves

“This case is about delivering justice under the rule of law and ensuring that those responsible for these heinous crimes are held accountable. We continue to respect the sovereignty and legal processes of Timor Leste, but we are steadfast in our resolve to pursue justice for the victims in the Philippines,” said Remulla.

Teves is facing 10 counts of murder, 12 counts of frustrated murder, and four counts of attempted murder for the March 4, 2023 attack that killed Governor Roel Degamo and nine others.

READ: Teves to return to PH ‘very soon’ – Remulla

On top of these, Teves is also facing murder charges for the deaths of three persons in Negros Oriental in 2019.

He has also been designated a terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council, and his assets in the Philippines have been ordered frozen.