World · Philippines Bureau
Ombudsman Questions Timing of Senator Legarda's Extended Medical Leave
The Office of the Ombudsman has cast doubt on the legitimacy of Senator Loren Legarda's prolonged absence from her duties, suggesting the timing appears questionable given ongoing corruption charges against her and her son.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman raised fresh concerns Tuesday over Senator Loren Legarda's extended medical leave, characterizing the timing as potentially suspicious amid active investigations into alleged corruption involving the lawmaker and her son, Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano indicated the antigraft agency has taken note of the senator's prolonged absence from her Senate responsibilities at a critical juncture in the proceedings against her. The office is currently pursuing plunder and graft complaints filed against both Legarda and Leviste, though specifics of the allegations were not detailed in the statement.
The Ombudsman's skepticism reflects concerns about the senator's unavailability during the investigation period. Her medical leave comes as the agency continues to process the cases, with officials questioning whether the timing may be strategically motivated.
Legarda has not publicly responded to the Ombudsman's insinuations. The senator's office previously justified her absence as medically necessary, though details regarding her specific health condition have not been disclosed to the public.