Former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo "Arnie" Teves Jr.  From Arnie A. Teves Congressman 3rd District Negros Oriental Facebook page 

MANILA — The Department of Justice announced that the Timor-Leste Court of Appeals has ruled again in favor of the extradition request of the Philippines to bring back to the country former Negros Oriental 3rd District representative Arnolfo Teves, Jr.

Teves is facing multiple murder charges in connection with the killing of Negros Oriental Gov Roel Degamo and 5 others in 2023. In March, he was arrested in Timor-Leste.

Expelled congressman Teves arrested in Timor-Lest

In a statement, the DOJ noted that the second round of extradition hearings was a result of the procedural objections or a “late appeal” made by the camp of Teves.

“Fortunately, the judicial system of Timor-Leste Court has been consistent with the tenets of fair play and justice considering the positive development in this case,” the DOJ said. 

The DOJ has requested the Timor-Leste government to extradite Teves so he can face his multiple murder cases before a Manila court. Asked about the extradition's exact date, DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez said Teves still has thirty days to appeal the decision.

“Only after the appeal has been resolved could the determination be made on when he can be brought home,” she stressed.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla meanwhile commended the Timor-Leste government for ruling in favor of the Philippine government.

In February, the Interpol issued a "red notice" against Teves, which serves as a "request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action," adding that it is "not an international arrest warrant." The DOJ also issued two alert list orders against the former lawmaker.

The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 51 ordered the immediate cancellation of his passport as well.