DOJ: Refusal to extradite Teves could hinder Timor's Asean bid

The Philippine government could oppose Timor-Leste's bid to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for refusing to extradite former Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr., according to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

- DAPHNE GALVEZ

"It's not going to be pleasant for Timor-Leste because they're applying to be in the ASEAN. We are one of the founding fathers of the ASEAN," Remulla told reporters yesterday.

The government is set to appeal the Timor-Leste Court of Appeal's decision to block Teves' extradition on grounds that he could face torture or inhumane treatment if returned to the country.

Teves' legal counsel Ferdinand Topacio said the government cannot ask Timor-Leste to deport Teves as it would be tantamount to asking the country to "obliquely transgress its Constitution."