DOJ Mobilizes Team for Fugitive Congressman Repatriation
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has assembled a special team to work closely with the government of Timor-Leste for the repatriation to the Philippines of fugitive Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo A. Teves Jr. This move comes following his expulsion from Timor-Leste and official deportation orders.
The DOJ’s team includes members from the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the DOJ itself. According to sources familiar with the matter, their mission is to ensure that the repatriation of Mr. Teves is conducted in a safe, secure, and lawful manner.
Grounds for Repatriation and Timor-Leste’s Position
The deployment of the team was prompted by official deportation documents released by Timor-Leste’s Ministry of the Interior. Additionally, the government’s spokesperson issued a firm statement declaring Mr. Teves’ presence a threat to national security and public order. They cited the seriousness of the criminal charges against him and noted the lack of legal authorization for his stay in their country.
“This administrative deportation decision, which takes immediate effect, includes a 10-year ban on re-entry and is grounded in Timor-Leste’s domestic laws on migration and asylum, as well as in respect for the principles of international cooperation and ASEAN solidarity,” the DOJ explained.
Timor-Leste’s Regional Responsibility and Justice Cooperation
The government of Timor-Leste emphasized that harboring fugitives disrupts diplomatic relations and undermines efforts to combat transnational crime. Community leaders said the deportation reflects a strong commitment to justice and regional stability.
The DOJ expressed appreciation for Timor-Leste’s act of regional responsibility. They reassured the public and the international community that the Philippine government will observe due process and pursue justice without bias upon Mr. Teves’ return.
Background on Fugitive Congressman Arnolfo A. Teves Jr.
Mr. Teves sought political asylum in Timor-Leste but was arrested by their immigration police on May 28. In the Philippines, he faces multiple charges, including murder, and a Manila regional trial court has issued an arrest warrant.
He was also designated a terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC), with his passport canceled by court order. Among the charges against him is the multiple murder indictment related to the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others on March 4, 2023.
Prior to these events, Mr. Teves left the Philippines for a prolonged trip to the United States, which eventually led to his expulsion from the House of Representatives. He later traveled to Timor-Leste, where he filed for asylum.
For more news and updates on fugitive congressman repatriation, visit Filipinokami.com.