Timor-Leste membership in ASEAN agenda; PH to follow roadmap despite Teves issue

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) may soon decide on Timor-Leste’s full membership as discussions continue among member states, with the Philippines reaffirming its support despite diplomatic tensions over the case of expelled lawmaker Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Thursday, May 22.

Foreign Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Dominic Xavier Imperial confirmed on Thursday that Timor-Leste’s accession is part of the agenda at the 46th ASEAN Summit.

“There’s a roadmap for Timor-Leste to be able to accede to ASEAN, and we are following that,” he said. “Certainly, we are supportive of Timor-Leste joining ASEAN.”

Expectations are growing following months of preparatory meetings. Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN chairmanship this year, has moved to expedite the process after the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in Langkawi in January.

Timor-Leste first applied for membership in 2011 and was granted observer status in 2022.

President José Ramos-Horta recently said the country has completed 80 percent of its roadmap requirements and is ready to join. Malaysia, a vocal supporter, has proposed giving Timor-Leste five to six years after admission to fulfill remaining obligations.

Despite supporting Dili’s bid, the Philippines previously expressed disappointment over Timor-Leste’s refusal to extradite Teves, who faces multiple murder charges and remains there even after his asylum was denied.

The DFA in March said Dili’s decision “does not show enough trust in the delivery of justice in the Philippines,” which is a founding ASEAN member.

Asked if the issue would affect the Philippine position, the DFA said the matter falls under the Department of Justice but reaffirmed Manila’s support for Timor-Leste’s ASEAN aspirations.

To gain full membership, Timor-Leste must comply with a roadmap that includes adopting ASEAN instruments and acceding to the ASEAN Charter.

Talks on its accession are expected to continue in upcoming meetings, with member states working toward a possible consensus later this year or in 2026.