Senators cite frat member Balag in contempt; order his detention

Balag, in black near the center, attending the October 18, 2017 hearing on hazing victim Horacio Castillo III’s death. /Meanne Corvera/ Eagle News/

(Eagle News) — Senators on Wednesday cited Aegis Juris fraternity member Arvin Balag in contempt and subsequently ordered his detention.

This was after Balag repeatedly refused to answer pointblank Senator Grace Poe, who asked whether he was indeed the president of the Aegis Juris fraternity as claimed by other members.

Balag repeatedly invoked his right against self-incrimination instead.

“For the position you’re holding in the frat, you’re invoking your right?” Poe, visibly irked, said.

Balag stood his ground, prompting Senator Panfilo Lacson to remind him that he could be cited in contempt.

Even then, Balag did not budge.

Poe at this point moved to cite him in contempt.

Her motion was duly seconded.

Senators noted he would be detained in a facility of their choice, including the Pasay City Jail.

“The motion is carried out,” Lacson said.

After the hearing was suspended, Balag asked that he be recognized, but Lacson said: “No more. We gave you all the chances kanina.”