Former Negros Oriental 3rd District representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, Jr. was not released from detention, according to the Department of Justice. Teves was re-arrested just hours after his reported discharge from Becora Prison in Dili, Timor-Leste.

The DOJ made the clarification shortly after Teves’ lawyer, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, announced to the media that the former congressman had been “released.”

DOJ Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano stated, “The release and subsequent re-arrest of the former congressman from prison to the Polícia Nacional of Timor Leste is part of the country’s process.”

Clavano criticized lawyer Ferdinand Topacio for his remarks to the media, saying, “Thus, the statements of Atty. Topacio are misleading, highly irresponsible and an insult to both countries.”

Clavano emphasized that the DOJ had submitted all requirements ahead of time and in compliance with Timor Leste’s law. He also expressed that the DOJ is confident in the success of the extradition proceedings.

Topacio previously stated that Teves was “released from preventive detention” because the Philippine government allegedly made the request too late and in a manner not approved by customary practice and international law.

“In other words, our government ‘screwed up’. Thus, his imprisonment was declared illegal,” Topacio claimed.

Topacio mentioned that Teves will have to undergo additional judicial proceedings regarding his stay in Timor-Leste, during which he will be accompanied by witnesses in his support, such as former Human Rights Commissioner Wilhelm Soriano.

📷 Cong. Arnie Teves FB