# Ombudsman investigation into Philippine solar energy probes

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ombudsman-investigation-into-philippine-solar-energy-probes
> Updated: 2026-08-24T23:10:22.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Senator Loren Legarda is facing a preliminary investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman regarding allegations of graft, plunder, and conflict of interest. The probe examines whether Legarda, her son Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste, and former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi sought exclusive government rights for solar energy ventures that reportedly never materialized, potentially leaving the state with unpaid obligations exceeding P10.44 billion.

Amid the investigation, Legarda has been on medical leave since early August to undergo evaluations for a lung condition. While Senator Panfilo Lacson dismissed reports that Legarda was seeking political asylum, labeling such claims as “fake news,” Legarda has extended her medical leave through September 2 following Senate approval. Legarda has rejected the allegations, describing them as “false and baseless.”

## Timeline

### 2026-08-24: Senator Loren Legarda extends medical leave amid solar graft probe

Senator Loren Legarda has extended her medical leave through early September amid an Ombudsman investigation into solar energy dealings involving her and her son.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/senator-loren-legarda-extends-medical-leave-amid-solar-graft-probe

### 2026-08-23: Senator Lacson denies reports of Legarda seeking asylum

Senator Panfilo Lacson denied rumors that Senator Loren Legarda is seeking asylum, stating she is abroad for medical treatment regarding a lung condition amid an Ombudsman investigation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/senator-lacson-denies-reports-of-legarda-seeking-asylum

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Cite as: Ombudsman investigation into Philippine solar energy probes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ombudsman-investigation-into-philippine-solar-energy-probes