Manila, May 21 -- The Philippine government is still waiting for Timor-Leste's decision on ousted lawmaker Arnolfo Teves Jr., the Department of Justice said Tuesday.

"Let's give due respect to the courts of Timor Leste. They are a sovereign country with their own systems. As of now, we can only confirm that we are awaiting their decision," DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano told reporters in reply to reports that Teves' request for political asylum has been turned down.

"We are following all the right processes and we do hope for a favorable outcome," Clavano added.

Teves is fighting his deportation back to the Philippines and has remained in Timor-Leste where he was arrested last March based on a red notice issued by the International Crim...