Senator Legarda waives salary for three months amid ongoing medical leave

Senator Loren Legarda has not drawn her salary for the past three months as she continues her extended medical leave, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said Sunday.

Gatchalian confirmed that Legarda opted not to claim her pay for August, September, and October while away from her Senate duties.

"August, September, October—tatlong buwan [hindi kumukuha ng sweldo si Sen. Legarda]," Gatchalian shared in an interview, adding that the senator provides weekly updates regarding the status of her leave. "Ang kanyang pag-abiso is on a weekly basis... I wish her all the best."

Legarda has been on official leave since Aug. 3, following her last plenary session appearance on July 29. Senate sessions are currently suspended and set to resume on Nov. 9.

According to her spokesperson, Atty. Tony La Viña, the 66-year-old lawmaker is currently undergoing treatment in France for a lung and autoimmune condition. La Viña noted that doctors advised her to take extended rest, as stress and physical tension could exacerbate her illness.

The senator's absence comes amid ongoing legal challenges. Legarda and her son, Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste, currently face plunder and graft complaints over allegations involving Leviste’s renewable energy firm, which reportedly failed to deliver solar power required under its congressional franchise.

-Paraluman News