SENATOR Loren Legarda has filed for extended medical leave covering October 12 and 13, 2026, Senate Secretary Renato Bantug confirmed Wednesday.
Bantug noted that Legarda’s office has not yet provided guidance on whether she will be able to attend Senate sessions for the remainder of October or into November. Legarda has been away from the chamber since July 29 and has been on continuous medical leave since August 3; the Senate is currently adjourned and set to reconvene on November 9.
Her spokesperson, Atty. Tony La Viña, previously disclosed that Legarda is undergoing treatment in France for a lung and autoimmune condition, explaining that her health deteriorates under stress.
The extended absence comes as she and her son, Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste, face plunder and graft complaints linked to the alleged failure of Leviste’s renewable energy firm to deliver contracted solar power under its congressional franchise. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla cited Legarda’s role as Senate Finance Committee chair in 2019 as the basis for including her in the case.
Legarda has maintained her innocence throughout, stating she has always acted with integrity. No timeline for her return has been established, and her spokesperson has not released further details regarding her medical progress or a projected date of resumption of duties.
metrosundaily
