Lacson: Legarda welcome to rejoin Senate majority but she must come home first

SENATOR Panfilo “Ping” Lacson on Monday said Senator Loren Legarda is welcome to return to the Senate majority coalition, but emphasized that she must first come back to the Philippines from France, where she has been receiving medical treatment since August.

Lacson’s remarks came amid growing questions over Legarda’s extended absence and her continued absence from plenary sessions and committee hearings. “She is welcome to rejoin the majority. But she needs to come home first,” Lacson stated, stressing that active participation in the Senate’s work requires physical presence in the country.

Legarda has been on medical leave since August 3, with her spokesperson confirming she is undergoing treatment for a lung condition that worsens under stress.

Her leave has been repeatedly extended, most recently until October 9. She has not attended any Senate session since July 29. Her son, Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste, is also currently abroad with her; both are facing separate investigations at the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with alleged irregularities involving renewable energy contracts worth billions of pesos.

Lacson’s statement underscored broader concerns among lawmakers about the impact of prolonged absences on the Senate’s ability to conduct business effectively.

While colleagues have expressed understanding for health‑related needs, several have noted that extended leave can leave legislative districts underrepresented and delay critical committee work. Legarda’s camp has maintained that she intends to return once her health permits, and that she remains in communication with her staff to monitor developments. No official date for her return has been confirmed.