Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Zia Alonto Adiong has likened the franchise controversy involving Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste’s solar energy firm to a “ghost project.”
Adiong, who sits on the House Committee on Energy, said the allegations—if proven true—raise serious concerns about the use of government-granted privileges.
“Sa akin, pag binenta mo ‘yan dahil tatakasan mo lang, anong pinagkaiba niyan sa mga ghost projects na merong obligasyon ka na dapat gawin tapos tinakasan mo? So walang pinagkaiba,” he remarked at a weekend news forum.
The lawmaker clarified that his comments were based on reported claims and stressed the need for verification, due process, and fact-finding.
He added, “I don’t know if there’s already a resolution that has been filed to investigate this case. So I think kailangan talaga natin masusing tingnan ito.”
Solar Para Sa Bayan Corporation (SPBC), one of Leviste’s companies, was granted a congressional franchise under Republic Act No. 11357 in 2019 to build and operate solar-powered microgrids in underserved areas.
Allegations have since surfaced that the franchise was sold or transferred despite unmet deliverables.
Leviste has denied the claims and filed a civil libel complaint against Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro, accusing her of spreading false information. He is seeking ₱100 million in moral damages, ₱10 million in exemplary damages, and ₱1 million in attorney’s fees.
The controversy has sparked questions on compliance, transparency, and accountability, with lawmakers expected to scrutinize the issue once Congress resumes session.