Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez issued a public apology to journalists on Tuesday, September 2, following backlash over a Facebook post where he accused the press of orchestrating a “media spin” against him and exposed the personal contact details of reporters.
Speaking during a privilege speech at the House of Representatives plenary session, Gomez admitted he could have handled the matter more responsibly.
“To the members of the press who took offense in my social media post, I sincerely apologize. Sensitive information has been removed. I understand that the media endeavors to get my side of the story. I acknowledge your efforts, I’m sorry, and I could have handled it better,” Gomez said.
The apology came days after Gomez drew flak for a since-deleted post in which he alleged that reporters’ questions about flood control projects in Leyte were part of a “paid” smear campaign against him. His post included screenshots that revealed the names and phone numbers of journalists seeking his comment on allegations made by Matag-ob, Leyte Mayor Bernie Tacoy.
Several media organizations, including House reporters and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), condemned Gomez’s actions, stressing that requests for comment are standard ethical practice to give public officials a chance to explain their side.
“The Honorable Gomez’s unfounded allegations were made with reckless disregard for the personal safety of the journalists involved,” House beat reporters said in a statement, noting that releasing personal data online exposed their colleagues to potential harassment.
Gomez, for his part, denied Tacoy’s claims of anomalies in Leyte’s flood control projects.
“I invite anyone with any doubt about any anomalies in flood control projects in the district I represent to scrutinize the documents and actual projects. Moreover, the Commission on Audit had already inspected this very project. Findings would be available from DPWH or COA. If ever any verified anomalies surface, I would gladly face the issue,” Gomez said.
Lawmakers have since raised the possibility of an ethics complaint against Gomez. The House committee on ethics, chaired by 4Ps party-list Rep. JC Abalos, has said it is preparing to handle any formal complaint that may be filed regarding the matter.
