The government of Timor-Leste has confirmed the deportation of former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo "Arnie" Teves Jr., declaring his presence in the country a threat to national security and public order.
In an official statement issued by the Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste, authorities announced that Teves will be deported through an administrative decision by the Ministry of the Interior.
The government noted that Teves is staying in Timor-Leste without a valid visa or legal authorization and is holding a Philippine passport that has already been cancelled.
"The Government of Timor-Leste believes that the presence of Filipino citizen Arnolfo Teves Jr. in its territory, who is suspected of having committed several serious crimes and has been formally charged by the judicial authorities of the Republic of the Philippines – a member country of ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – represents a serious and unacceptable situation," Timor-Leste said in a press release dated May 28.
Timor-Leste officials warned that Teves' prolonged stay in the country may set a "serious precedent with potential implications for internal security."
"The perception that Timor-Leste might be viewed as a refuge for individuals fleeing international justice undermines the integrity of our borders and our shared efforts to combat transnational crime," it added.
The deportation order takes effect immediately. Moreover, Timor-Leste has imposed a 10-year entry ban on Teves, citing national legislation on migration and asylum.
"The Government reaffirms its commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law, respect for international norms concerning cooperation between states, and the safeguarding of overall security and stability not only within the national territory but also in the Southeast Asia region, in coordination with the collective efforts of ASEAN Member States," the statement concluded.
Teves is facing multiple criminal charges in the Philippines including 13 counts of murder, 13 counts of frustrated murder, and 4 counts of attempted murder. He has been staying in Timor-Leste for over two years.
One of the most high-profile cases linked to him is the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo in 2023.
Teves has repeatedly denied the allegations against him. As of this report, there has been no immediate statement from his camp regarding the deportation order.
On Wednesday, Teves' son announced the arrest of his father in Dili, Timor-Leste, claiming that he was kidnapped and abused.
Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ) reaffirmed that the Philippine government is ready to bring Teves home to face the charges against him.
