The Department of Foreign Affairs late Tuesday said Timor- Leste has denied the application for political asylum of Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves.

Teves is accused of masterminding the murder of nine people including political rival and Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.

In a statement, the DFA said Timor-Leste gave Teves five days to leave the country or file an appeal regarding its decision.

Teves, who has denied involvement in the killing, has vowed to return “once the threat to his life is dealt with accordingly.”