Legarda, Leviste left PH; NBI confirms departures amid probes

Senator Loren Legarda and her son, Batangas First District Representative Leandro Leviste, have left the country on separate flights, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confirmed. NBI Director Melvin Matibag stated that Leviste flew to Hong Kong, while Legarda departed for France on Sunday, August 2. In a separate interview, Senator Erwin Tulfo confirmed that Legarda is on medical leave. "She asked for permission, she filed for leave of absence. It is a medical leave," Tulfo said. He also indicated that Legarda secured travel authority, adding, "Yes, I believe it is dated August 3 to 5." Tulfo noted her absence during the last impeachment hearing. Legarda's camp has also confirmed her medical leave. The overseas trips by Leviste and Legarda follow the Ombudsman's announcement of an investigation into alleged P10-billion plunder and graft complaints. These complaints stem from the purported failure of Leviste's renewable energy firm to provide solar power as stipulated by its congressional franchise. Leviste is also facing a separate investigation by the NBI concerning an alleged plot to frame Executive Secretary Ralph Recto. The Batangas congressman has denied all allegations. Earlier in May, the Department of Energy (DOE) filed a complaint with the Department of Justice against Leviste and five officials of Solar Para sa Bayan Corporation (SPBC) for alleged violations of the Public Service Act. Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian stated he has no information regarding Legarda's departure. "I don't have any information about her foreign trip. We have not yet spoken regarding her trip," he told reporters. Gatchalian added that Legarda's flight does not require travel authority from the Senate. Source: GMA News Philippines