Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Legarda Leviste is now being considered a fugitive from justice, according to National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag, who clarified that the lawmaker cannot simply pay the ₱72,000 bail set for his arrest warrant over an alleged violation of the Public Service Act.
The ₱72,000 bail was specified in the warrant issued by the Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 235. Matibag said Leviste’s two co-accused have already posted bail, while the lawmaker has not, as he is reportedly in France with his mother, Sen. Loren Legarda.
“Considered na fugitive from justice [si Leviste] kasi hinahanap [siya] ng korte at may warrant of arrest na binigay,” Matibag said.
The Department of Justice earlier said Leviste cannot secure bail while overseas without first submitting himself to the court’s jurisdiction. Such submission must be made through arrest or voluntary surrender.
Leviste’s spokesperson, Atty. Tony La Viña, also recognized the requirement for personal appearance, saying in a separate interview that, based on his understanding, “kailangan sa piyansa personal ka pumunta para mag-bail.”
Leviste remains abroad, with the Bureau of Immigration saying he has not returned since leaving the country on Aug. 2.
The NBI said it has started coordinating with other government agencies on possible measures concerning his continued absence from the country. Matibag said authorities may seek the cancellation of Leviste’s passport and coordinate with the House of Representatives regarding the travel authority granted to him.
“Pwede po tayong makapag-request ng cancellation ng kanya pong passport,”
Matibag said while discussing the steps available to authorities in cases involving individuals with warrants who are overseas.
Leviste’s case originated from a complaint involving the Solar Para sa Bayan Corporation. Prosecutors alleged that the company failed to meet obligations under its legislative franchise to establish and provide electricity services in remote, unserved and underserved areas.
