MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman has intensified its investigation into alleged franchise violations by Solar Philippines following the company’s sale from Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste to businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan, officials said.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla directed his office to scrutinize whether the transfer of Solar Philippines’ controlling interest complied with requirements for congressional approval typically needed for companies holding legislative franchises.
Remulla said investigators would examine the mechanics of the sale, including corporate documents, timelines, and shareholder approvals, to determine if the transaction bypassed legal and regulatory requirements. He added the probe would also assess whether any public officials participated in or facilitated the sale in ways that could constitute administrative or criminal liability.
The inquiry will consider relevant laws on public utilities, franchise ownership, and anti-graft provisions to determine if violations occurred. The Office of the Ombudsman plans to gather records from regulatory agencies, Congress, and the companies involved to verify whether the sale included proper approvals or disclosures.
Remulla said the investigation remains ongoing and that the office has not yet released final findings or recommendations regarding the Solar Philippines franchise transfer.
