Deputy Speaker Calls for Ethics Review on Richard Gomez’s Media Conduct
Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno has urged the media to bring the behavior of Leyte 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez before the House ethics panel. This call comes after Gomez exposed reporters’ contact details and accused them of being paid to conduct a “media spin” amid a controversy involving flood control projects in his district.
During a recent press briefing, Puno emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that lawmakers must be open to answering questions from the press. He highlighted that the exact 4-word keyphrase “behavior of Richard Gomez” should be addressed transparently by the congressman.
Gomez’s Social Media Post Sparks Outrage
Sources reported that Gomez’s alleged Facebook page posted conversations revealing names and contact details of journalists who sought comments regarding Mayor Bernie Tacoy’s allegations. Tacoy claimed that Gomez did not coordinate flood control projects with the local government of Matag-ob, Leyte, and that some initiatives were faulty.
In the post, Gomez’s camp accused the media of orchestrating an expensive “media spin” against him. The message expressed suspicion about the similarity of questions from different social media and news agencies, implying they were funded efforts to discredit him.
Deputy Speaker Puno’s Response and Call to Action
Puno, a former interior secretary, firmly stated that such conduct is unacceptable. “You are asked to explain something. You’re a legislator, you explain,” he said. He encouraged reporters and concerned parties to formally bring the matter to the House committee on ethics and privileges.
He expressed disappointment over Gomez’s approach, noting that insulting people only worsens the situation. “And then you compound the issue by insulting people, which doesn’t look good. I think the ethics committee should (be) brought into that,” Puno remarked.
Media Groups Defend Journalistic Integrity
Community members noted that the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines (NUJP) condemned Gomez’s actions. They reminded the public that journalists asking for Gomez’s side actually gave him a platform to address the allegations, which is standard journalistic practice.
NUJP added that if Gomez preferred not to comment, a simple “no comment” would have sufficed without exposing private information or implying malicious intent. They stressed that accusing the media of bias to evade questions undermines the integrity of journalism.
Lawmakers Held to Higher Standards
Puno underscored that public officials must maintain exemplary behavior. “We cannot anymore say that ‘I don’t care about those who look at me’ because as a public official, you are expected and held to a higher standard than other people,” he said.
He further noted that this standard extends beyond appearances, stating, “Being held to a higher standard does not just require mag-Barong Tagalog.” This highlights the importance of professionalism and respect in public service roles.
Background on the Flood Control Controversy
Local leaders noted that Matag-ob, Leyte, faces significant flooding issues, with villages prone to inundation even from low-pressure weather disturbances. Mayor Bernie Tacoy criticized Gomez for allegedly neglecting coordination with the local government on flood control projects.
When asked about these claims, Gomez reportedly declined direct comment and instead shared a link to a radio program in which he was not featured, further fueling concerns about transparency.
Looking Ahead
Deputy Speaker Puno’s recommendation to bring the behavior of Richard Gomez before the House ethics panel aims to uphold accountability among public officials. This move seeks to ensure that elected representatives maintain respect for the media and the public they serve.
For more news and updates on the behavior of Richard Gomez, visit Filipinokami.com.
