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.
Article continues after this advertisementDuring 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.
FEATURED STORIES GLOBALNATION Putin hosts summit to show West it can't keep Russia off global stage GLOBALNATION China says it reached 'resolution' with India on contested border issues GLOBALNATION Eyes on the prize: One man rides high to reach his goalREAD: 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.”
Article continues after this advertisementTeves is accused of masterminding the assassination of his political rival, Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo, but has so far evaded prosecution in the Philippines.
Article continues after this advertisementHe faces multiple charges, including murder, frustrated murder and attempted murder. Teves was arrested on March 21 in Dili while playing golf.
Article continues after this advertisementOn 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.
Article continues after this advertisement“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.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
The visit also addressed matters related to national security and international cooperationjp7 casino, involving “sensitive diplomatic exchanges that remain confidential to safeguard the integrity of the meeting.”
READ NEXT Iran president vows ‘stronger’ response if Israel ... Marcos lauds close connection with Qatar EDITORS' PICK DILG identifies 38 hotspots ahead of 2025 polls LIVE UPDATES: Tropical Storm Kristine VP Sara Duterte says she still sees Sen. Marcos as a 'friend' Marcos smiled, walked away when asked about VP Duterte’s accusation Marcos: PCG 'never alone' in mission to protect PH Manila Water Foundation and partners underscore benefits of handwashing MOST READ SC issues TRO vs Comelec resolution on dismissed public officials Tropical Storm Kristine slightly intensifies; Signal No. 2 in 5 areas LIVE UPDATES: Tropical Storm Kristine Espenido retracts drug-related allegations vs De Lima View comments