An investigation is underway into alleged franchise violations by a solar energy firm founded by Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla said Saturday, following claims that the transfer of the franchise proceeded without congressional approval.
Leviste agreed last June to divest his shares in SP New Energy Corporation (SPNEC) before assuming office in the 20th Congress.
SPNEC, a subsidiary of Solar Philippines, Southeast Asia’s largest solar company, raised over ₱34 billion in total funding through the sale of Leviste’s shares to a power distribution company and public shareholders.
“Walang consent ang Congress sa transfer ng franchise na ‘yan,” Remulla said.
He described the process as “critical” and noted that 84 contracts have reportedly been cancelled so far.
“Yung prangkisa niya iniimbestigahan eh. Yung violation ng franchise. Dapat diyan yung franchise hindi mo ninenegosyo. Batang-bata ka ninenegosyo mo yung franchise? Wala ka bang kahihiyan?” Remulla added.
He stressed that a national renewable energy franchise is “critical to the national life” and should not have been bought and quickly sold for profit.
The Ombudsman also linked the matter to ongoing investigations involving the so-called “Cabral files,” which allegedly list flood control projects and their proponents. Authorities continue to review the authenticity of these documents.
Remulla challenged Leviste to present all relevant documents and allow a congressional probe. Leviste has yet to respond.