Leviste's solar ventures were privately funded, Legarda's office clarifies

MANILA — Attorney Antonio La Viña, representing Senator Loren Legarda, asserted on Thursday that solar energy initiatives developed under Leviste's company relied entirely on private financing. La Viña's statement came as the failed renewable projects faced renewed scrutiny in recent weeks.

The legal counsel emphasized that the unsuccessful ventures did not "constitute plunder or graft," maintaining that no public resources were misappropriated in their development or execution. He underscored the distinction between privately funded commercial undertakings and potential violations of state funds.

Leviste, who chairs a solar energy company involved in several stalled projects, has faced mounting questions regarding the fate of the initiatives and their impact on stakeholders. The clarification regarding the funding sources represents an attempt to address concerns about the use of government resources in connection with the failed developments.

The statement comes amid broader discussions about renewable energy projects in the Philippines and their implementation across regional jurisdictions. Officials have not yet released detailed timelines regarding the status of the affected ventures or recovery efforts for affected investors.