Remulla leads PH delegation to Timor-Leste

Jesus Crispin Remulla —Senate PRIB

MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has traveled to Dili, Timor-Leste, to seek continued cooperation from the Timor-Leste government regarding the extradition of expelled lawmaker Arnolfo Teves Jr.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday said Remulla led an official delegation to meet with Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta on Oct. 1.

During the meeting, Remulla emphasized the Philippine government’s commitment to due process and would await Timor-Leste’s resolution of Teves’ appeal of his expatriation.

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

According to the DOJ, “His appeal was centered on the need to provide justice for the victims and their families.”

Teves is accused of masterminding the assassination of his political rival, Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo, but has so far evaded prosecution in the Philippines.

He faces multiple charges, including murder, frustrated murder and attempted murder. Teves was arrested on March 21 in Dili while playing golf.

On June 27, the DOJ announced that the Court of Appeals in Timor-Leste had granted the Philippine government’s request for Teves’ extradition.

However, Teves’ lawyers appealed the decision, citing procedural concerns regarding the number of judges involved in the case.

“This case is about delivering justice under the rule of law and ensuring that those responsible for these heinous crimes are held accountable,” Remulla said.

“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,” he said.

In addition to discussing Teves’ extradition, the DOJ chief also warned the Timor-Leste government about the potential challenges posed by offshore gaming operators as he formally informed them that President Marcos had banned their operations in the Philippines.

“It was relayed that there are reports indicating Timor-Leste as one of the possible destinations where Pogo (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) operations could transfer. Given the shared Catholic heritage and values of both the Philippines and Timor-Leste, the Philippine government deemed it essential to inform Timor-Leste of the potential socioeconomic and security challenges posed by allowing Pogos to operate within its borders,” the DOJ said.

The visit also addressed matters related to national security and international cooperation, involving “sensitive diplomatic exchanges that remain confidential to safeguard the integrity of the meeting.”