A Makati City court has issued an arrest warrant for Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste, one of the Philippines’ youngest and wealthiest legislators, following accusations that he failed to meet the obligations of a 2019 congressional franchise. Leviste, the founder of Solar Para sa Bayan, was tasked with establishing solar energy facilities in underserved areas; however, regulators report the project never materialized, leading to widespread contract cancellations and significant government fines. While the company struggled to deliver on its energy promises, Leviste successfully raised billions through a public offering for a derivative entity and subsequent share divestments. Authorities allege that these sales were conducted without the required regulatory approval, resulting in a staggering P24 billion fine against his firm.

The situation is further complicated by the legislator's current status, as he has been abroad since August, reportedly accompanying his mother, Senator Loren Legarda, for medical treatment. Leviste’s legal team has dismissed the warrant as meritless, arguing that the project’s failure was due to a lack of necessary guidelines from the Department of Energy. Beyond the solar project, the family is facing mounting political pressure, including an expected wave of graft and corruption charges. Amidst a volatile national political climate defined by the rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, the legal troubles surrounding the Levistes are viewed by many as part of a deepening crisis within the Philippine government.