Senator Legarda extends medical leave for fifth time as ombudsman scrutiny mounts

MANILA — Senator Loren Legarda has extended her medical leave for the fifth consecutive time, with her absence from the Senate now expected to continue through September 16.

The prolonged leave has drawn mounting criticism from Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, who has escalated his public censure of the senator's extended absence. Remulla's intensified scrutiny comes as his office conducts a preliminary investigation into alleged irregularities totaling P10.44 billion involving solar power projects.

Senate Secretary Renato Bantug confirmed the latest extension of Legarda's leave, which has now stretched across multiple months. The senator's repeated extensions have raised questions about the duration and nature of her medical condition, though specific details regarding her health concerns have not been publicly disclosed.

The timing of the ombudsman's heightened criticism underscores the sensitivity surrounding Legarda's absence during an active investigation. Her extended leave has kept her away from Senate proceedings while the preliminary inquiry into the alleged solar power project irregularities remains under review.