Loren Legarda, Leandro Leviste out of the country – immigration bureau

Senator Loren Legarda and her son, Representative Leandro Leviste, have departed the Philippines, according to the Bureau of Immigration. They left the country on August 2 via separate flights, days after the Office of the Ombudsman announced pending plunder and graft complaints against both individuals. The immigration authority confirmed their exit on August 7, stating neither had any derogatory records at the time of departure. The Ombudsman, Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla, disclosed on July 31 that formal complaints involving allegations of plunder and graft are under preliminary investigation against Legarda and Leviste. These charges stem from Leviste’s involvement in solar energy projects. The Ombudsman added that the investigation uncovered evidence suggesting that certain service contracts were transferred to Leviste’s affiliated companies, entities that exist only on paper and have yet to begin operations. According to the Ombudsman, these findings indicate that Legarda and Leviste had no intent to honor the contracts they secured. As a result, the government faces over ₱10.44 billion in outstanding financial obligations due to terminated agreements. While the current status of the complaints does not prevent Legarda and Leviste from leaving the country, the Ombudsman has the authority to request a precautionary hold-departure order (PHDO). This legal measure can be initiated by investigators and approved by courts if deemed necessary. Legarda’s absence from recent political activities has been attributed to a medical leave. On August 3, the chief of staff for Senator Legarda informed the Senate leadership that she would be on medical leave until August 5. This explanation accounts for her absence during the ongoing Senate impeachment proceedings. Senator Erwin Tulfo confirmed the medical leave, though he did not specify its nature beyond noting it was related to a medical need. Legarda has not attended the impeachment hearings scheduled from August 3 to 5. Her absence raises questions about the timing of her departure and whether it coincides with developments in the Ombudsman’s investigation. However, the Bureau of Immigration stated that her exit was lawful given her clean record at the time of departure. The allegations against Legarda and Leviste involve complex legal and financial matters tied to Leviste’s solar energy initiatives. The Ombudsman’s probe includes claims that Leviste conspired with former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi to secure exclusive government rights over the nation’s solar energy resources. This alleged collaboration reportedly involved legislative and regulatory actions aimed at securing monopolistic control over renewable energy sectors. The investigation into these matters is still in its early stages, and no formal charges have been filed. Nevertheless, the Ombudsman’s announcement has drawn attention to potential conflicts of interest and misuse of public funds linked to Leviste’s business ventures. The inclusion of Cusi in the case adds another layer of complexity, considering his previous role in the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Legarda, a prominent senator known for her advocacy on environmental issues, has faced scrutiny in the past regarding her involvement in various legislative and policy decisions. Her son’s electoral victory in the Batangas 1st District earlier this year further complicates the situation, as it positions Leviste as a key figure in regional politics. As the investigation progresses, the Ombudsman may seek judicial intervention to prevent Legarda and Leviste from fleeing the country. The possibility of a PHDO remains open, depending on the strength of the evidence presented by investigators. Meanwhile, the Senate continues to monitor Legarda’s health status, with no indication that her medical condition poses an immediate threat to her ability to participate in legislative duties once her leave concludes.