Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez denies release of disqualification ruling

CEBU, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), as well as Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez, has denied allegations that a ruling has already been released regarding the latter’s disqualification.

Gomez, who is seeking reelection in the upcoming National and Local Elections, and COMELEC-8 clarified that no formal decision has been made on the disqualification case filed against him by mayoral candidate William Oñate of Palompon, Leyte.

In a phone interview, COMELEC-8 Regional Director Remlane Tambuang addressed the misinformation circulating about Gomez’s alleged disqualification.

“Para sa kasayuran sa taga Leyte, particularly sa distrito kung asa nga kasamtangang congressman si Richard Gomez, mahitungod sa iyang disqualification, as of the moment wala pa koy nadawat or ang office about sa iyahang kaso,” said Tambuang.

Tambuang confirmed that a disqualification case against Gomez had been filed at the COMELEC Central Office in Manila by Oñate. The petition accuses Gomez of violating election laws by spreading false information regarding the upcoming elections.

Oñate alleged that Gomez shared a video from a local radio program, Krusada sa Radyo, on his verified Facebook page, captioning it with the statement: “Palompon is poised to do grave and massive election cheating this coming May.”

According to Oñate, the post aimed to sow fear and distrust in the electoral process, thereby violating Section 261(z)(11) of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).

The said provision prohibits spreading false and alarming reports to disrupt or confuse voters during the election process. If found guilty, Gomez could face penalties, including disqualification from holding public office.

Tambuang urged the public to remain vigilant and verify information before spreading rumors.

“Kung naa may mogawas na istorya na na-disqualify na si Cong. Gomez, ato lang usa kining ipangutana or mag-research ta if how true is this,” Tambuang said.

In response to the disqualification case, Gomez told The Freeman that it is not uncommon for opponents to resort to such tactics during elections.

“Ganyan talaga when you are a frontliner and the opponents are far behind the survey…They will always look for ways to disturb you,” Gomez said.

Speculations have also surfaced that the disqualification case may be politically motivated, with some linking it to Gomez’s decision not to sign the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte. Supporters of both Gomez and Duterte have speculated that this might have influenced the filing of the case.

“We cannot stop people from speculating on matters like these, especially now that it is campaign and election season,” Gomez added.

Despite the controversy, Gomez remains optimistic, urging his supporters to stay focused on the truth and the campaign.

“Let’s focus on winning these elections and make sure to crush the opponents, the liars, and the candidates involved in the drug trade,” said Gomez, reiterating his commitment to the eradication of illegal drugs in the country.

COMELEC-8 emphasized that the case is still under review, and no formal ruling has been made regarding Gomez’s disqualification. — (FREEMAN)