Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste has requested travel clearance from the House of Representatives to visit 19 countries over the next six months, from February to July. The request, which covers periods when Congress is in session, has raised questions about the timing and purpose of the extensive travel.
Leviste’s Explanation
Leviste stated he requested the travel authority at the behest of “high-level” representatives of the Marcos administration. According to Leviste, these representatives asked him to travel abroad and cease releasing evidence linking government officials to potentially irregular projects within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He clarified, however, that he intends to be present for congressional proceedings when available.
Leviste’s planned itinerary, as reported by Politiko, includes visits to China, the US, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and The Netherlands. The Netherlands is of particular note, as it is where former president Rodrigo Duterte is currently detained in The Hague.
Potential Motives and Scrutiny
Leviste has been a vocal critic of the DPWH, publishing what are known as the “Cabral files,” a dataset detailing DPWH funding allocations. The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism has described these allocations as “allocables,” or automatic pork barrel funds for district congressmen. His criticism has garnered both allies and enemies.
Simultaneously, scrutiny of Leviste’s business dealings has increased. Ombudsman Boying Remulla has stated that Leviste is under investigation for the sale of his solar energy business franchise to tycoon Manny V. Pangilinan without obtaining congressional approval. The investigation concerns SP New Energy Corporation (SPNEC), though Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings (SPPPHI) retains 27% ownership, and Leviste remains its president and CEO.
The timing of Leviste’s trip coincides with the impending House investigation into his businesses, leading to speculation about the underlying motivations for his travel request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What countries are included in Representative Leviste’s travel request?
Representative Leviste has requested travel clearance to visit 19 countries, including China, the US, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and The Netherlands.
What is the nature of the investigation involving Representative Leviste’s business dealings?
Ombudsman Boying Remulla is investigating Representative Leviste for allegedly “selling” the franchise of his solar energy business, SP New Energy Corporation, to Manny V. Pangilinan without congressional approval.
What are the “Cabral files” that Representative Leviste published?
The “Cabral files” are a dataset from the DPWH that reveal funding allocations to legislative districts, described by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism as “allocables” – automatic pork barrel funds for district congressmen.
Given the multiple layers of scrutiny and the unusual scope of his travel plans, what impact will this situation have on Representative Leviste’s position within the House and his future political endeavors?
