Arnie Teves Deported to Philippines: Fugitive Lawmaker Faces Murder Charges After Arrest in Timor-Leste
Headline:
Arnie Teves Deported to Philippines: Fugitive Lawmaker Faces Murder Charges After Arrest in Timor-Leste
Subhead:
Former Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., accused in the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo, is back in Philippine custody following arrest and deportation from Timor-Leste
May 29, 2025
MANILA, Philippines — Fugitive former lawmaker Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., accused of orchestrating the 2023 murder of Governor Roel Degamo and multiple others in Negros Oriental, has been deported to the Philippines following his arrest by immigration authorities in Dili, Timor-Leste.
Teves was apprehended on May 27, 2025, for overstaying in the country without a valid visa and using a canceled Philippine passport. The Timor-Leste government announced his deportation shortly after, citing national security concerns and public safety as key factors.
By May 29, Teves was flown back to Manila aboard a Philippine Air Force plane, handcuffed and under heavy guard. The Department of Justice (DOJ) welcomed his return, stating it is a critical step forward in delivering justice for the Degamo family and the people of Negros Oriental.
Legal Moves and Family Reactions
Following his arrest, Teves’ legal counsel filed a habeas corpus petition in Timor-Leste, claiming the apprehension was unlawful and not supported by a valid warrant. Meanwhile, his son, Axl Teves, took to social media to accuse authorities of “kidnapping and abusing” his father, alleging that no proper documentation was presented during the arrest.
Widow of Slain Governor Reacts
Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, widow of slain Governor Roel Degamo, hailed the deportation as a “significant step toward justice,” reaffirming her trust in the Philippine justice system to prosecute those responsible for the massacre that shook the province in 2023.
Teves’ Legal Woes Continue
Teves had been living in Timor-Leste since 2023, where he sought political asylum after being linked to the Pamplona massacre, which left at least ten people dead. In March 2025, Timor-Leste’s Court of Appeal denied the Philippine government’s initial extradition request, citing concerns over due process.
Back in the Philippines, Teves faces 10 counts of murder, 12 counts of frustrated murder, and 4 counts of attempted murder. He was officially expelled from the House of Representatives in August 2024 for disorderly conduct and continued absence from Congress.
What Happens Next
Now in custody, Teves is expected to undergo judicial proceedings under Philippine jurisdiction. The DOJ has prepared multiple criminal charges and reiterated its intent to hold all conspirators accountable, regardless of their political status or connections.
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Arnie Teves Deported to Philippines: Fugitive Lawmaker Faces Murder Charges After Arrest in Timor-Leste
