House Ethics Panel Ready for Richard Gomez Complaint
The House of Representatives’ committee on ethics and privileges is on alert for any complaint arising from Leyte 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez’s actions that allegedly endangered media workers. This development highlights growing concerns over the safety and privacy of journalists in the country.
Sources reported that the committee is closely monitoring the situation after Gomez shared reporters’ contact details in a public post. This incident sparked criticism and raised questions about the protection of press freedom and personal data.
Committee Chair Addresses the Situation
Committee chairperson and 4Ps party-list Rep. JC Abalos acknowledged the issue and confirmed the panel’s readiness to handle any complaints. He noted that twelve members have already been elected, and the leadership is expected to complete the committee roster soon.
However, Abalos refrained from commenting on the controversy directly, emphasizing the need to preserve the integrity of the committee’s proceedings once fully convened. He reminded the public that civil and criminal remedies remain available against any lawmaker and that the ethics committee’s investigation would not hinder other legal actions.
Call for Proper Conduct and Legal Compliance
Abalos urged all House members to observe proper decorum and conduct, underscoring that everyone is bound by the laws of the land beyond the committee’s jurisdiction. This call for accountability comes amid mounting scrutiny of Gomez’s handling of media-related matters.
Controversy Over Flood Control Projects
Last Thursday, Matag-ob, Leyte Mayor Bernie Tacoy criticized Gomez for allegedly failing to coordinate flood control projects with the local government, despite using congressional funds for these initiatives. Community members said reporters sought Gomez’s explanation, but instead of addressing the concerns, the lawmaker accused the media of conducting an expensive spin in a Facebook post.
In that post, Gomez shared his conversations with reporters without redacting their names and contact information, exposing their personal details. Several media groups and journalists condemned this act, stressing that asking for Gomez’s side should have allowed him to clarify issues without endangering media workers.
Ethics Complaint Urged by House Leaders
Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno encouraged the media to file a complaint with the ethics committee regarding Gomez’s actions. Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon also expressed support for the reporters’ right to bring the matter before the panel.
Puno, a former Interior secretary, emphasized that lawmakers must be willing to explain themselves when questioned. “Yeah, absolutely. Absolutely,” he said when asked if the incident could warrant an ethics complaint. “I encourage you to bring it before the ethics committee here.”
He added that Gomez worsened the situation by insulting people involved, expressing disappointment as a House leader.
Makabayan Bloc Condemns Doxxing Incident
On Saturday, the Makabayan bloc strongly opposed Gomez’s actions, viewing them as violations of press freedom and the public’s right to information. ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio and Kabataan party-list Rep. Renee Louise Co highlighted the irony that the incident occurred on National Press Freedom Day itself.
“We lament Representative Gomez’s doxxing of journalists who were simply doing their job,” Tinio said. Co added, “We raise serious concern over the disclosure of personal information which constitutes a direct threat to media workers.”
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