Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson on Wednesday praised Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste for his campaign promoting the proper use of the national budget, noting that the young lawmaker has faced criticism for his outspoken stance against corruption.

In a Kapihan sa Senado, Lacson commended Leviste’s honesty and courage in expressing his views on governance, calling the congressman’s openness a welcome sign of accountability in public service, according to a report by RH Raymund Dadpaas.

“Pasalamat na rin tayo na merong Congressman Leviste na naglalahad ng mga nalalaman niya na talagang maski sino’ng tamaan,” Lacson said.

“The mere fact na meron siyang sine-share sa media sa atin, at least merong vanguard, merong parang deterrent na merong isa na talagang magsasalita, come what may,” he added.

Lacson also defended Leviste from criticisms for being too vocal, particularly regarding the flood control corruption scandal.

He noted that Senator Loren Legarda, Leviste’s mother, had reached out to him for guidance to help her son navigate the political implications of repeatedly calling out colleagues.

At the same time, Lacson advised Leviste to exercise caution in handling public statements and media appearances. He suggested that the young lawmaker “calm down a little” and avoid frequent television appearances, warning that overexposure could lead to public fatigue.

“Huwag ang bara-bara. Sabi ko na rin kay Senator Loren, parang i-telegraph niya ng konti, huwag ang araw-araw nasa TV siya. Kasi di ba nakakaumay din?” Lacson said.

The senator said he understands the challenges Leviste is facing, recalling similar experiences when he was new to the Senate during the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.