Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 11) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. thanked Timor-Leste for denying embattled Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves’ request for political asylum.
Marcos said the rejection makes it easier for Philippine authorities to bring the suspended congressman back home.In denying his request for political asylum then we are going closer in the case to bring him back home to face the allegations that have been made [against him]. But again, we thank you for your very quick response in that regard,” the president told Timor-Leste Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 42nd Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Indonesia.
With the lawmaker’s asylum bid denied, Marcos again urged Teves to return to the Philippines.
Come home. That’s the best advice I can give him. Come home,” the chief executive said.
Teves has been tagged as the alleged mastermind in the murder of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.
He was slapped with a 60-day suspension in March for failing to return to the country from his medical treatment in the United States after his travel authority expired. His suspension ends on May 22.
