Topacio slams Teves deportation

Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, counsel of embattled Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., on Thursday denounced the deportation of expelled Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves Jr. by Timor-Leste, saying that it violated a final and executory court ruling and disregarded the country’s judicial independence.

          “Isang malaking kamote ang nangyari,” Topacio said as he criticized the Timorese executive branch for allegedly undermining the decision of its own courts.

He said there is still a final and executory decision of Timor-Leste as the life of the former solon is in danger.

Topacio pointed to a ruling by the Tribunal de Recursos, the highest court in Timor-Leste, which he said had found Teves’ extradition illegal on grounds of potential risks to his life and the possibility of torture or inhumane treatment in the Philippines.

          “There is also a pending habeas corpus case,” Topacio said, stressing that Timor-Leste’s judiciary had issued a 48-hour order for Teves to be produced in court.

          “The court did not follow it, it was disregarded by Executive Branch of the Timor-Leste government,” said Topacio.

Topacio despite the deportation, said the matter has become “moot and academic” as Teves has arrived in the country.

          But he said that his legal team is ready to mount a legal battle once proceedings resume locally.

          “Actually po, we already made our move by coordinating with the DOJ, NBI and the Bureau of Immigration,” he said.

          Topacio revealed that they had requested information on the flight carrying Teves.

          He reminded the government of its commitment to due process, insisting that Teves should be allowed to be assisted by his lawyers.

          “As of now, we are the counsels of choice of Congressman Teves,” he said.

          He also warned that the flight, which landed at a military airbase, could complicate access for his legal team.

          Nevertheless, Topacio confirmed they are preparing for the legal proceedings ahead: “We are ready for that and we will be stepping up to the plate so to speak when the time comes.”

          “We will avail of all legal avenues that are available to us in order to protect the rights and interests of our client,” he said. “We firmly believed that he has done any wrongdoing.”

The former solon is facing multiple murder charges in connection with the 2023 killing of Governor Roel Degamo and nine others in Negros Oriental but has denied any involvement.

                 As of writing, Topacio is reportedly in Villamor Airbase with the mother of Teves.