MANILA, Philippines — The Senate has opted to follow a Supreme Court order to release Aegis Juris president Arvin Balag to avoid a constitutional crisis during the holiday season. The Supreme Court has ordered Aegis Juris member Arvin Balag released by the Senate pending resolution of a petition challenging his detention for contempt. Under the Senate rules, Lacson's committee has jurisdiction over "all matters relating to peace and order." The Aegis Juris Fraternity leader had been detained in the Senate since October 18 after he was cited in contempt for repeatedly invoking his right against self-incrimination during a hearing on Castillo's death. READ: Fratman Arvin Balag cited in contempt by Senate

Source: Philippine Star December 22, 2017 03:56 UTC