World · Philippines Bureau
Ombudsman flags senator's leave extension as suspicious amid graft probe
The Office of the Ombudsman has raised questions about Senator Loren Legarda's extended time off, characterizing it as "suspicious" while the anti-graft body investigates plunder and graft complaints against her and Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste.
LSN Philippines ·
The Office of the Ombudsman expressed concern Tuesday over Senator Loren Legarda's extension of leave from her official duties, describing the timing as questionable given ongoing investigations into her conduct. Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano noted that the senator's request came amid separate plunder and graft complaints filed against both Legarda and Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste.
Leviste has separately applied for a two-month leave of absence, according to Clavano's statement. The timing of both leave requests has drawn scrutiny from the anti-corruption body as it pursues its inquiries into the allegations against the two officials.
The Ombudsman did not immediately specify the nature of the complaints or provide additional details regarding the investigation. However, the office's characterization of Legarda's leave extension as suspicious suggests potential concerns about the circumstances surrounding the request or its proximity to the ongoing probes.