“In view of recent events and the health conditions of his father, Senator Revilla Sr., accused Revilla needs the comfort and security of his family. There is nothing more important for accused Revilla in the these trying times than the love and support of his family,” his motion read. In his bid for a holiday furlough, Revilla said lamented that for the past three years he was unable to spend Christmas and New Year at home with his family. Meanwhile, in its opposition paper dated December 14, the Office of the Ombudsman's prosecution team said Revilla's motion must be denied “for lack of merit." Furthermore, the prosecution said allowing Revilla to leave his detention would give a negative impression to the other equally situated detainees and to the public.

Source: Philippine Star December 16, 2017 10:30 UTC