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Advocates Philippines
DOJ Cheers Timor-Leste's Bold Move To Deport Arnolfo Teves Jr.: 'Justice Is Coming Home'
Screengrab from Arnie Teves
In a major development that’s making waves back home, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has officially welcomed the swift and firm action taken by the government of Timor-Leste to deport former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr.
Teves, who’s been on the run for over a year now, is facing serious charges in the Philippines—including murder, frustrated murder, and the high-profile assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo. With Timor-Leste declaring him a threat to national security and public order, officials there have decided it’s time for him to go.
And not just go—Teves has been slapped with a 10-year re-entry ban as part of an administrative deportation that takes effect immediately.
According to the DOJ, this decision is a big win for justice and international cooperation. They’ve already mobilized a joint team with representatives from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to make sure the deportation and repatriation process goes smoothly and safely. The message? Justice will be served—and the process will be by the book.
In a strongly worded statement, Timor-Leste’s Council of Ministers made it clear: harboring fugitives is not something they’re willing to entertain. They emphasized that doing so would only hurt international relations and regional security.
The DOJ applauded this stance, calling it a solid example of regional responsibility and ASEAN solidarity.
Meanwhile, back in the Philippines, Teves’ camp has confirmed they’re preparing for his return. His legal counsel, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, said they’ve already reached out to the DOJ, BI, and NBI to coordinate on the exact time and location of his client’s arrival.
Topacio emphasized that Teves is entitled to full legal representation the moment he lands—and they want authorities to respect that right. He also announced that a virtual press conference is set for around 1:00 PM to provide updates.
As everyone waits for the next chapter in this unfolding legal drama, one thing’s for sure: after months of evading Philippine authorities, Teves is finally heading home—and this time, the law is waiting.
Teves, who’s been on the run for over a year now, is facing serious charges in the Philippines—including murder, frustrated murder, and the high-profile assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo. With Timor-Leste declaring him a threat to national security and public order, officials there have decided it’s time for him to go.
And not just go—Teves has been slapped with a 10-year re-entry ban as part of an administrative deportation that takes effect immediately.
According to the DOJ, this decision is a big win for justice and international cooperation. They’ve already mobilized a joint team with representatives from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to make sure the deportation and repatriation process goes smoothly and safely. The message? Justice will be served—and the process will be by the book.
In a strongly worded statement, Timor-Leste’s Council of Ministers made it clear: harboring fugitives is not something they’re willing to entertain. They emphasized that doing so would only hurt international relations and regional security.
The DOJ applauded this stance, calling it a solid example of regional responsibility and ASEAN solidarity.
Meanwhile, back in the Philippines, Teves’ camp has confirmed they’re preparing for his return. His legal counsel, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, said they’ve already reached out to the DOJ, BI, and NBI to coordinate on the exact time and location of his client’s arrival.
Topacio emphasized that Teves is entitled to full legal representation the moment he lands—and they want authorities to respect that right. He also announced that a virtual press conference is set for around 1:00 PM to provide updates.
As everyone waits for the next chapter in this unfolding legal drama, one thing’s for sure: after months of evading Philippine authorities, Teves is finally heading home—and this time, the law is waiting.
May 29, 2025
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