Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla and Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta met on Tuesday, Oct. 1, during a brief state visit of the Philippine official in the Southeast Asian country.
In a press statement, the DOJ said the "high-level" meeting between the delegations of both countries that was held in Timor-Leste's capital city of Dili discussed topics that would "strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance national security."
“Secretary Remulla conveyed an official message from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, addressing two key agenda points of significant regional importance,” the DOJ said.
It said “the two governments demonstrated the shared commitment to fostering closer cooperation and addressing critical issues affecting both nations.”
The DOJ disclosed that one of two points tackled during the meeting was the extradition of expelled Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” A. Teves Jr. who has been designated by the Philippine government as a terrorist and faces multiple charges in the Philippines including the March 4, 2023 shootings in Pamplona, Negros Oriental where 10 persons were killed including provincial governor Roel Degamo.
"This case is about delivering justice under the rule of law and ensuring that those responsible for these heinous crimes are held accountable,” Remulla told Horta.
“We continue to respect the sovereignty and legal processes of Timor- Leste, but we are steadfast in our resolve to pursue justice for the victims in the Philippines," Remulla said.
The DOJ said the other concern discussed by Remulla with Horta involved reports that the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) might transfer to Timor-Leste after President Marcos ordered their activities to cease by the end of the year.
“Given the shared Catholic heritage and values of both the Philippines and Timor-Leste, the Philippine government deemed it essential to inform Timor-Leste of the potential socio-economic and security challenges posed by allowing POGOs to operate within its borders,” the DOJ said.
Aside from the concerns, it said the discussion also “touched on matters concerning national security, international cooperation and involved sensitive diplomatic exchanges that remain confidential to safeguard the integrity of the meeting.”