Leviste's solar projects were privately funded, says Legarda's spokesperson

MANILA, Philippines — The renewable projects under Batangas First District Representative Leandro Leviste’s solar energy company were privately funded, said Atty. Antonio La Viña, spokesperson of Senator Loren Legarda. La Viña maintained that the failed projects of Leviste under scrutiny did not “constitute plunder or graft” as no government funds were used. “First of all, the projects that were supposed to be done by Mr. Leviste were privately funded. So there was no government fund that was used,” La Viña told reporters in a Viber message. He added that Leviste’s solar energy company, which is now the subject of investigation, is not a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC). “It’s a private company,” he said. La Viña’s statement came after Senator Risa Hontiveros, chair of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, raised concerns about Leviste’s alleged involvement in a solar power project that reportedly failed to deliver and incurred losses. Hontiveros had earlier urged Leviste to clarify his role in the solar power project, citing reports that it involved public funds and had resulted in losses for the government. Leviste, for his part, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, stating that his business dealings are separate from his public service. However, Hontiveros’ committee had launched an inquiry into the alleged anomalies in the solar power project, which she said could potentially involve plunder and graft charges. La Viña reiterated that the projects were privately funded and that Leviste’s company is a legitimate private entity. “So, there’s no plunder or graft because there’s no government fund involved. It’s a private transaction,” he said. He also pointed out that Leviste has been transparent about his business interests and has declared them in his Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN). Meanwhile, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the Senate Committee on Energy, said he is open to reviewing any allegations of irregularities in the solar power project, but stressed the importance of due process. “We need to ensure that all allegations are thoroughly investigated and that due process is followed,” Gatchalian said. He added that the committee would look into the matter to ensure that the public interest is protected and that renewable energy projects in the country are implemented responsibly and efficiently.