The Department of Justice (DoJ) expressed its gratitude to Timor Leste for ruling once again in favor of the Philippines’ extradition request to bring back former Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. to face charges in a Philippine court for the killing of former Governor Raul Degamo and several others.

“We expected nothing less than a second grant of extradition by Timor Leste, which affirms the Philippine government’s stance that there is merit to the request and that they made the right decision the first time around,” the DoJ stated.

The second round of extradition hearings followed procedural objections raised by Teves’ camp, despite the appeal being filed late after Teves had voluntarily participated in the proceedings but refuted them after receiving an “unfavorable decision.”

“This is a resounding victory for the Filipino people, a testament to our government’s unyielding commitment to attain real-time justice at all costs,” said Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.