THE Ministry of Interior of Timor Leste has denied the political asylum application of Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., who has been tagged as the alleged mastermind in the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and nine others on March 4.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced the decision in a statement yesterday, saying Teves has been given five days to leave the country.

“Today, the Ministry of Interior of Timor Leste confirmed that Representative Teves’ application for political asylum has been denied,” the DFA said.

“In accordance with the decision of the Timor-Leste Government, Representative Teves has been granted a period of five days to depart Timor-Leste. During this time, he also has the option to file an appeal regarding the decision,” it added.

The DFA confirmed that Teves is currently in Dili, Timor Leste.

However, Teves is allowed to appeal the decision of Timor-Leste.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed on Tuesday that Teves is in Timor-Leste applying for a protection visa with the intention of seeking asylum.

Remulla has requested that the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) designate Teves Jr. as a terrorist and establish a technical working group to investigate and recommend action.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken initial steps to declare Teves a terrorist, making him eligible for deportation wherever he travels.

Justice Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano explained that Teves’ alleged involvement in multiple murders, as well as his recruitment of gunmen and use of high-powered firearms, fall under the scope of the Anti-Terror Law.

Teves denies involvement in the killing and has vowed to return to the Philippines “once the threat to his life is dealt with accordingly.”

CANCEL TEVES PASSPORT

The DOJ to tighten noose on Teves for prosecution on various charges, including the murder Degamo and nine others.

In an interview with CNN Philippines’ The Source, Remulla disclosed that the DOJ will request the cancellation of Teves’ passport to compel his return to the Philippines after his application for political asylum in Timor-Leste was denied.

Remulla expressed the belief that Teves would evade prosecution by moving through South Korea, Cambodia, and Bangkok, where most of his associates are said to be staying.

The DOJ may file the request to cancel Teves’ passport on Monday.

Remulla reiterated that the government has initiated the process of declaring Teves a terrorist, with the Technical Working Group commencing meetings.

He clarified that the government is not persecuting but prosecuting him.

TEVES COUNSEL REACTS

Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, counsel of Teves, described as bereft of basis the government’s plan to seek the cancellation of the lawmaker’s passport.

“Sorry for the late reply. There is no basis for the cancellation of Cong. Teves’ passport at this time. There are only three instances when a Philippine passport may be cancelled: when one is a fugitive from justice; when one has been convicted of a crime; and when the passport was fraudulently acquired or has been tampered with. Thanks,” Topacio said in a message.

Meanwhile, Topacio said that Teves camp will release a statement soon regarding the denial of the congressman’s application for asylum in Timor Leste. By Hector Lawas and Critina Lee-Pisco