Legarda, Son, Cusi Face Ombudsman Probe Over P10-B 'Ghost Electricity' Projects

Senator Loren Legarda, her son Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, and former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi will undergo a preliminary investigation by the Ombudsman for alleged plunder and graft. The investigation stems from their alleged involvement in solar 'ghost electricity' projects worth over P10 billion, linked to the younger lawmaker. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced the probe on Friday. In a statement, Legarda vehemently denied the accusations, calling them 'baseless.' She asserted that her public service is separate from her son's ventures and suggested the investigation might be politically motivated. 'Ghost electricity' projects typically refer to ventures that allegedly receive payments from power distributors or the government based on power purchase agreements, despite lacking actual electricity supply. Such schemes raise concerns about the misuse of public funds and could jeopardize the stability of the nation's power supply. Leviste is understood to have been involved in these solar power projects from their early stages. Cusi's potential liability could involve abuse of authority during his tenure as Energy Secretary if he approved or facilitated these projects. This investigation is significant as it brings to light issues of corruption in Philippine politics, particularly concerning the allocation and use of substantial public funds in the energy sector. The Philippines has a history of corruption allegations surrounding large-scale infrastructure projects and government contracts, and the public awaits the judiciary's response to restore trust. Information Source: Inquirer NewsInfo