MANILA, Philippines — Senator Loren Legarda has once again extended her medical leave, with her latest absence from Senate proceedings now set to run until September 2, according to Senate Secretary Renato Bantug.
Legarda’s office informed the Senate that she would be on medical leave from August 24 to 26 and September 1 to 2, continuing a series of absences that began earlier this month.
The latest extension is the fourth medical leave period reported by the Senate, following her previous leaves covering August 3 to 5, August 11 to 12, and August 17 to 19.
Her continued absence has drawn increased public attention, particularly as questions surrounding her overseas travel and an ongoing investigation involving her and her son, Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, continue to make headlines.
Ombudsman Raises Questions, Legarda Pushes Back
The Office of the Ombudsman earlier described Legarda’s repeated extensions as “suspicious” in the context of the ongoing graft and plunder complaints involving the senator and Leviste.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said the agency had taken note of the continuing absences and travel-related circumstances while an investigation was underway. Other major news organizations, including GMA News and The Philippine Star, also reported on the Ombudsman’s concerns over the extended leave and related travel issues.
But Legarda strongly rejected the suggestion that her medical leave was improper. She said her leaves were filed in accordance with Senate rules and maintained that she had committed no wrongdoing, calling accusations against her unfounded.
It is important to note that the Ombudsman’s remarks do not amount to a finding of guilt, and the allegations involving Legarda remain subject to the appropriate legal and investigative processes.
A Month of Repeated Leave Extensions
Legarda’s absence has now stretched across several periods in August, with each extension adding to questions about when she will return to regular Senate duties.
Earlier reports confirmed that Legarda and her son left the Philippines separately on August 2. Legarda subsequently confirmed that she had filed for medical leave, asking the public not to make unwarranted conclusions about her situation.
Reports over the past week have also shed more light on her medical circumstances, although details surrounding her condition have not been fully disclosed by her office. The senator has maintained that she is exercising her legal right to take medical leave.
Her absence has also affected her participation in Senate activities, including proceedings involving the chamber’s impeachment court.
What Happens Next?
With her medical leave now extended until September 2, attention will turn to whether Legarda returns to the Senate immediately afterward or seeks another extension.
For now, the confirmed fact is clear: Legarda remains on medical leave, while questions surrounding her prolonged absence continue to intensify.
As the Ombudsman investigation proceeds and public scrutiny grows, the next developments in the senator’s case—and her eventual return to the Senate—are likely to remain closely watched.
The bigger question now is: Will September 2 mark Loren Legarda’s return to the Senate—or just another chapter in a controversy that continues to grow?
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