Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla questioned whether Senator Loren Legarda and her son, Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, intend to return to the Philippines as they face plunder and graft complaints.
Remulla said he initially believed they intended to return but later received information from people they mutually know suggesting otherwise.
“Parang ayaw niya na umuwi. Tinatakasan nila. Ayaw nilang humarap sa charges,” Remulla said, adding that flight may be considered an indication of guilt in criminal law.
Legarda has been on medical leave since August 3 to undergo treatment in France for a lung and autoimmune condition, according to her spokesperson. Her leave was extended several times, with the latest reported extension covering October 12 and 13.
Her spokesperson previously said the senator was eager to return to the Philippines after completing her treatment.
Meanwhile, Remulla earlier said the Office of the Ombudsman was nearing the filing of a case against Legarda and Leviste before the Sandiganbayan over alleged irregularities involving solar energy projects.
The allegations remain subject to legal proceedings, and the pair’s absence or medical leave does not by itself establish guilt.
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