Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez has apologized to members of the media after he posted their names, photographs, and contact details when he was sought for comment to accusations made by the mayor of Matag-ob on an alleged anomalous flood control project. 

“Sensitive information has since been removed. I understand that the media endeavored to get my side of the story. I acknowledge your efforts. I am sorry and I could have handled it better,” Gomez said in his privilege speech in Congress on the flood control project in the Municipality of Matag-ob in his district. 

A portion of the project in Barangay Riverside collapsed on August 25, 2025. 

Earlier, House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno said that Gomez may be placed under investigation by the Congress’ Committee on Ethics for posting sensitive information.

However, Gomez said he sought to protect himself by doing so. 

To recall, Gomez had called journalists’ efforts part of a “media spin” and alleged that they were paid to get his comment on the issue. 

In the same privilege speech, Gomez accused Mayor Bernandino (Bernie) Tacoy of picking on the issue based on inaccurate information. 

After Tacoy watched the privilege speech via GMA-7’s “24 Oras” evening on September 2, 2025, he stood by his earlier statements. 

“Mayroon akong ebidensyang hinawakan galing sa DPWH, that as of July 31, 2025 ang proyekto, accomplishment o ang nakuha ng contractor na bayad ay nasa 95.7% na,” Tacoy said. 

Tacoy negated Gomez’ accusation on sensationalizing the case on the flood control project that collapsed. He reiterated he seeks to protect government coffers and ensure quality infrastructure projects in Matag-ob.