Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste has formally requested the House leadership for permission to travel abroad, citing an alleged request from “high-level representatives of the administration” as the reason for his planned trips. Leviste claimed that the request was communicated through his mother, Senator Loren Legarda, and was related to ongoing investigations into possible anomalies in Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects.
In a statement to reporters, Leviste explained that the administration representatives allegedly wanted him to travel abroad to prevent the release of evidence linking government officials to irregularities in DPWH projects. Despite these claims, the lawmaker emphasized that he would remain “present at any opportunity that Congress gives me to speak on any issue.”
Leviste’s request for travel authority reportedly covers several countries over five months beginning February 8. However, he did not specify the exact duration of each trip or provide a detailed list of destinations. When asked if he plans to visit former President Rodrigo Duterte in the Netherlands, one of the countries included in his travel request, Leviste clarified that he intends to engage with Filipino communities abroad rather than meet specific individuals.
The move comes as the House Committee on Legislative Franchises prepares to initiate a motu proprio inquiry into issues surrounding Leviste and the solar firm he founded. The inquiry is expected to begin next week, and Leviste assured the public that he will cooperate fully and attend any congressional hearings related to the matter.
“I asked for the travel authority upon the request of representatives of the administration who asked that I go abroad and stop releasing evidence linking government officials to anomalous DPWH projects—but this does not mean that I will be abroad for that whole time,” Leviste said.
He also declined to disclose the identities of the administration representatives, citing their request to remain anonymous. “Several high-level representatives of the administration have requested this—to my mom, so that I do not name them,” he added.
While the circumstances surrounding the travel request and the ongoing investigation remain controversial, Leviste maintained that he intends to comply with congressional oversight and engage with constituents both in the Philippines and overseas.