Manila, March 27 -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is disappointed over Timor-Leste's decision to deny the Philippine government's request to extradite former Rep. Arnolfo "Arnie" Teves Jr., its spokesperson said Thursday.

In a statement, Ma. Teresita Daza indicated that the department interprets this as Timor-Leste lacking trust in the Philippines' justice system.

"We are disappointed that Timor-Leste has not shown enough trust in the delivery of justice in the Philippines, a founding member of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), which it seeks to join, and among the very first ASEAN member states to convey support for its aspiration to join the association," Daza said.

She said Timor-Leste's application depen...