Deportation and Murder Charges: Arnie Teves Returns to the Philippines

Former Negros Oriental Representative Arnie Teves Deported from Timor-Leste, Faces Murder Charges in the Philippines. Arnie Teves, the former representative of Negros Oriental, returned to the Philippines on May 29, 2025, following his deportation from Timor-Leste. His extended stay in Timor-Leste, exceeding two years, raised concerns about national security, prompting the Timor-Leste government to take action. Upon his arrival in Manila, Teves was met by authorities and is expected to face charges related to murder. "His extended stay poses a disruptive factor in bilateral relations," stated a Timor-Leste government official in a press release. Teves's lawyer, Attorney Ferdinand Topacio, asserts the deportation was illegal and plans to file a petition for a writ of habeas corpus. The Department of Justice Secretary Boying Remulla confirmed Teves will receive due process. This event underscores the complexities of international relations and the ongoing legal proceedings in the Philippines.