The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that the Philippine government notes the recent developments in Timor-Leste regarding the arrest of former lawmaker Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, Jr.

Teves stands accused of multiple counts of murder in connection with the slay of former Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and other related crimes in the Province of Negros Oriental.

"We reiterate that the Philippines has been prepared to bring Mr. Teves home to face the charges against him since the time our request for his extradition was first granted. However, that decision was unexpectedly reversed, stalling the process," DOJ said in an official statement. 

"While we welcome the recent pronouncements from Timor-Leste indicating a renewed position that Mr. Teves should not remain in their territory, we await their action—whether he would simply be deported for being an undocumented foreigner or extradited forthwith pursuant to our pending application. We emphasize that the Philippine government has not been furnished with any legal or official document on the matter," DOJ added.

Nonetheless, DOJ said, they are "ready to arrange the transfer of custody by the most expeditious means once we are clarified on this issue."

"We remain ready and committed to bring Mr. Teves to justice in accordance with the rule of law and the principles of international cooperation. We continue to work closely with the appropriate authorities in Timor-Leste and stand by to act the moment a formal process is initiated," DOJ further said.