DOJ Clarifies Why Leandro Leviste Is Not Yet a Fugitive from Justice
LEANDRO LEVISTE – The DOJ has clarified Leandro Leviste’s legal status following the issuance of an arrest warrant by a Makati court.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified that Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste cannot yet be classified as a fugitive from justice despite an arrest warrant issued against him by a Makati court.
During a press briefing on Thursday, October 8, Office-In-Charge Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Calvin Abugan explained that authorities must first follow the required legal procedures before officially labeling an individual a fugitive from justice.
“As of now, not yet. We, there’s a process that needs to be followed before we can declare him a fugitive from justice,” Abugan said.
He also emphasized that Leviste must be allowed to appear before the court during the scheduled hearing.
“Also, the court will give him an opportunity to appear before it at the scheduled hearing,” he added.
On October 5, the Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 235 issued an arrest warrant against Leviste and two other individuals over alleged violations of the Public Service Act. Despite the issuance of the warrant, two of his co-accused have already posted bail.
Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida addressed questions concerning the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) investigation into the possible cancellation of Leviste’s passport. Vida said prosecutors would determine the direction of the case.
The Supreme Court established procedures and standards for identifying fugitives from justice in November 2025. Under the High Court’s guidelines, the classification covers accused individuals who leave or flee to evade prosecution or avoid punishment.
Leviste is currently in France, where he is reportedly attending to his mother, Senator Loren Legarda, who is suffering from a lung illness.
Despite the legal developments in the Philippines, Leviste reportedly plans to return to the country and address the case before the court.
According to a GMA News report, his spokesperson, lawyer Tony La Viña, said the congressman intends to personally appear before the court to post bail.
The DOJ’s clarification highlights the distinction between having an outstanding arrest warrant and being formally declared a fugitive from justice. Until the necessary legal process is completed, Leviste will not be given that classification, Abugan explained.
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