Legarda extends medical leave until September 2

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 25, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

Senator Loren Legarda has extended her medical leave until September 2, 2026, Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. confirmed.

Bantug said Legarda’s office sent another notice informing the Senate that the senator would be on medical leave from August 24 to 26 and again from September 1 to 2. The Senate holds legislative sessions from Monday to Wednesday.

Legarda has been on a series of medical leaves since early August. She previously filed leave notices covering August 3 to 5, August 11 to 12, and August 17 to 19.

Her continued absence comes as the Office of the Ombudsman conducts a preliminary investigation involving Legarda, her son Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste, and former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi over alleged irregularities involving solar energy projects.

The Ombudsman is looking into plunder and graft complaints stemming from allegations that companies linked to Leviste obtained renewable energy contracts but failed to deliver some of the promised solar power projects. The investigation will determine whether there is sufficient basis to pursue criminal charges.

Legarda has denied the allegations, calling them false and baseless and saying no public funds were involved. She has also defended her medical leave as being in accordance with Senate rules.