Gomez to Comelec: Probe alleged leakage of ruling

MANILA, Philippines - Actor Richard Gomez, who is seeking a congressional seat in the fourth district of Leyte, urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to investigate a suspected leakage of its decision purportedly denying his motion for reconsideration.

Reliable sources have informed Gomez’s camp that his congressional rival, Eufrocino “Wennie” Codilla Jr., allegedly bragged to several barangay officials as early as March 26, the start of the official campaign period, that six Comelec commissioners had already signed the resolution denying Gomez’s motion for reconsideration on the previous decision disqualifying him.

“This is not the first time that my political rival had bragged about a Comelec decision before it was promulgated. He also did this a few weeks before the Comelec First Division came out with its decision disqualifying me,” Gomez alleged in a statement.

“It is very strange and highly anomalous that he seems to know the contents of every Comelec decision before it could be promulgated,” he said.

Gomez added: “If this is true, then I respectfully urge the Comelec to investigate this matter because my political opponent could already be making a mockery of our electoral and judicial system.”

“Even if the Comelec denies my motion for reconsideration, this decision would not be final because my lawyers could still file an appeal to the Supreme Court. In the meantime, all the votes in my favor would still be counted and ultimately, it will be the people of the fourth district of Leyte who will decide who will be their true leader,” he added.