Mayor Janice Degamo criticized the Timorese court’s ruling against extraditing Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, the alleged mastermind behind her husband’s murder. The Philippine government plans to appeal, emphasizing serious charges against Teves and its commitment to justice for victims. Justice Secretary Remulla expressed concerns about the maturity of Timor-Leste’s judicial system, while other officials reiterated assurances regarding Teves’ treatment if extradited.
The widow of slain Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, Mayor Janice Degamo, has criticized the recent ruling by a Timorese court that rejected the Philippine government’s extradition request for Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, the alleged mastermind behind her husband’s murder. In a statement shared on Facebook, she described the court’s decision as “peculiar and difficult to understand,” expressing concern over potential outside influences affecting the ruling.
She suggested the possibility of the Timorese court being swayed by powerful connections and asserted that it is reasonable to speculate such influence. Despite the ruling, Mayor Degamo expressed confidence in the Philippine government’s determination to extradite Teves. She stated, “I believe in our government’s capacity to bring Arnie Teves back so he would face the charges filed against him.”
Next week, Mayor Degamo plans to meet with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla to discuss the situation and the government’s response. The Department of Justice has emphasized the serious charges Teves faces, including multiple counts of murder, and stated that it would utilize all legal avenues available to appeal the court’s decision.
Justice Secretary Remulla highlighted that there are “millions of reasons” the Timorese court altered its prior rulings favoring extradition. He commented on the immaturity of Timor-Leste’s judicial system, emphasizing that there was no justifiable basis for the recent ruling regarding Teves’ extradition. The court cited constitutional provisions against extradition where the extraditee might face the death penalty or torture, despite the Philippines having abolished the death penalty in 2006.
During a separate press briefing, Malacañang’s Undersecretary Claire Castro reiterated that Manila’s appeal aims to alleviate concerns about potential mistreatment of Teves if extradited. She acknowledged that the appellate court’s decision could significantly affect ongoing cases against him and emphasized the administration’s commitment to pursuing justice for the victims, including the case against Teves related to the Degamo murder.
Teves faces extensive charges, including 10 counts of murder, stemming from the attack on March 4, 2023, which resulted in the death of Governor Degamo and nine others. Although several suspects initially linked Teves to the crime, later recantations occurred after legal representation was provided. Despite these developments, charges were formally filed against Teves, who has continuously denied involvement and was ultimately expelled from the House of Representatives before going into hiding in Timor-Leste, where he was arrested.
In conclusion, Mayor Janice Degamo has raised serious concerns regarding the Timorese court’s ruling on the extradition of Arnolfo Teves, expressing doubt over its fairness. The Philippine government plans to appeal this decision, highlighting the importance of justice for the victims of the Degamo murder case. Both the Department of Justice and justice officials remain committed to ensuring that Teves is returned to the Philippines to face the allegations against him.
Original Source: globalnation.inquirer.net
