JANUARY 11, 2026 — When Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla dropped the bombshell that Rep. Leandro Leviste’s solar firm may have violated its franchise, it wasn’t just about energy — it was about power in every sense of the word. The issue? The alleged transfer of SP New Energy Corp.’s (SPNEC) franchise without congressional approval.

“Walang consent ang Congress sa transfer ng franchise na 'yan,” Remulla said. 

(Congress did not give consent to that franchise transfer.)

That statement alone should make us pause. If franchises — especially in critical sectors like renewable energy — can be flipped like trading cards, what does that say about accountability? 

SPNEC, a subsidiary of Solar Philippines, raised over ₱34 billion from selling shares, much of it to a power distribution company and public investors. But Remulla insists the sale of controlling interest was never cleared by Congress.

“Yung prangkisa niya iniimbestigahan eh. Yung violation ng franchise. Dapat diyan yung franchise hindi mo ninenegosyo. Batang-bata ka ninenegosyo mo yung franchise? Wala ka bang kahihiyan?” he said.

(His franchise is being investigated. That’s a violation. A franchise should not be treated as business. You’re so young, and you’re already making a business out of a franchise? Do you have no shame?)

Strong words, yes — but what’s the bigger picture here? Remulla claims 84 contracts have already been cancelled, and that the national energy forecast has turned into nothing but “drawing.” In short, promises of power supply never materialized.

And yet, Leviste has been busy making noise elsewhere — remember the Cabral files? He flaunted supposed documents on flood control projects, tying them to corruption. But while those files stirred headlines, the Ombudsman insists the real issue is the franchise. 

“Kaya I refused to engage kasi nagbabago ang usapan. Ang pag-usapan natin ang franchise niya,” Remulla said. 

(I refused to engage because the discussion keeps changing. What we should talk about is his franchise.)

So here’s the question for us, the public: Are we being distracted by the noise while the real issue slips through the cracks? Renewable energy is supposed to be our future. But if its franchises are treated like commodities, who really benefits?

Leviste promises to answer everything when Congress resumes session on January 26. Will that finally bring clarity, or just another round of headlines?

Leviste is the son of ex-politican and businessman Antonio Leviste and incumbent senator Loren Legarda.

Filipinos deserve more than noise — we deserve accountability, transparency, and energy that truly powers the nation.

What do you think of the young Leandro Leviste — Is he the fresh, promising leader we need, or just another “nepo baby” wrapped in controversy?

(Image: Leandro Legarda Leviste| Facebook)