Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has confirmed that the government is investigating Leandro Leviste, Batangas 1st District representative, over the alleged sale of his solar energy mega-franchise without the required approval from Congress. 
In a recent interview, Remulla said the lawmaker is facing serious questions over possible violations of his franchise agreement.
“Marami siyang ibang problema. Iyong prangkisa niya, iniimbestigahan na ngayon, iyong violation of franchise. Kasi dapat iyan iyong franchise ay hindi mo ninenegosyo. Batang-bata ka, ninenegosyo mo iyong franchise,” Remulla said.
The Ombudsman was referring to Solar Philippines, a renewable energy firm founded by Leviste in 2013 to expand access to solar power nationwide. In 2019, Solar Philippines was granted a 25-year mega-franchise during the Duterte administration to develop and operate solar-powered microgrids and distribute electricity in unserved and underserved areas across multiple provinces.
However, controversy arose in 2023 when Leviste sold 14.6 billion shares of SP New Energy Corporation to Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGen) for approximately ₱18.26 billion.
According to Remulla, the transaction may have violated the terms of the franchise, which is non-transferable without congressional approval.
“Wala ka bang kahihiyan? Anong klaseng tao iyan? Anong klaseng Pilipino ‘yan? National franchise. Renewable energy is critical to the national life. Tapos ganun lang. Nabenta mo? Ipi-flip mo lang? Nanay mo pa senador,” Remulla said.
The Ombudsman stressed that any sale or transfer involving a national franchise must first secure the consent of Congress, as mandated by law.
Remulla also revealed that the investigation has already resulted in the cancellation of 84 related contracts, raising concerns about the possible impact on the country’s energy supply.
“Imagine, the effect on the national energy situation. Sasabihin mo ito ang forecast natin sa energy. Andiyan ang DOE naniniwala sa iyo, iyon pala drawing lang. Hindi nangyari,” he added, referring to the Department of Energy.
The Ombudsman further accused Leviste of attempting to deflect attention from the franchise issue by raising other controversies, including the ongoing flood control scandal.
“Gusto niyang ibahin ang usapan. Hindi puwede iyon. Ito muna ang pag-usapan natin bago ang lahat,” Remulla said.
As of this writing, Leviste has yet to issue a public response to the Ombudsman’s statements or the ongoing investigation.
