Former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, Jr. (PNA file photo)
MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) is optimistic that Timor-Leste's Court of Appeals will approve the extradition of former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. to the Philippines to face the charges against him.
In a statement Tuesday, the DOJ said the former lawmaker's extradition hearing has concluded.
It said both parties were given time to submit their respective memorandums or position papers outlining their arguments and positions.
“Submission is sequential, not simultaneous. Timor Leste Central Authority will have to submit first its Memorandum/Position Paper followed by Teves camp,” the DOJ said.
The DOJ said the appellate court, thereafter, will have five days to render its decision.
It expects that a decision will come by or close to the end of June.
“The DOJ is optimistic that a favorable decision will be made by the Court of Appeals, particularly as our witnesses were able to effectively counter the arguments raised by the camp of Teves,” it said.
Teves is facing 10 counts of murder, 12 counts of frustrated murder, and four counts of attempted murder before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 51 in relation to the March 4, 2023 shootings in Pamplona town, Negros Oriental. (PNA)
