Ombudsman Remulla Raises Issues on Leviste’s Solar Franchise, Cites Political Links and Project Delays

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has alleged that Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste secured a solar power franchise with the help of political connections during the Duterte administration, and that the company involved failed to deliver on its project commitments.

The remarks, circulated through a legal commentary clip online, were framed as part of broader observations on accountability in government-approved projects. Remulla suggested that the approval process for the franchise raised questions about influence, while also pointing to alleged shortcomings in project execution.

The Ombudsman’s statements are allegations, not judicial findings. Any determination of liability—administrative, civil, or criminal—would depend on formal complaints, documentary evidence, and due process before the appropriate bodies.

Leviste has not issued a detailed response to the specific claims as of writing. Legal analysts note that franchise approvals typically involve multiple layers of review, including congressional action and regulatory compliance, and that project delays or non-delivery are assessed against contractual obligations and regulatory standards.

Officials emphasized that allegations involving public franchises and energy projects are evaluated through established mechanisms, including audits, hearings, and, if warranted, prosecutorial review. The Ombudsman’s office reiterated its mandate to pursue accountability based on evidence, regardless of position or affiliation.

For the public, the issue highlights a familiar governance question: how political access intersects with project performance—and how institutions test both.

In accountability work, claims begin conversations; records decide outcomes.