GOMA REELECTION BID. Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez has filed his certificate of candidacy on Wednesday (Oct.2), formalizing his reelection bid for Leyte’s 4th congressional district. With him is his wife, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY — Leyte 4th district Rep. Richard Gomez filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) as he is seeking for a second term.

Gomez, who submitted his CoC on Wednesday, Oct.2, was accompanied by his wife, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez, their daughter Julia, members of the Ormoc City Council, and other supporters from the 4th district.

In an interview with the media, Gomez explained that he is running for re-election to continue the work he started in his first term.

He noted that, while he had filed 300 bills, only a few were passed into law. Gomez emphasized that he intends to refile these bills if re-elected.

“Our team, including my wife’s team in Ormoc and supporters across the district, is well-prepared for this election,” Gomez said.

He added that all mayors in his district, along with his supporters, are united and ready for the upcoming May 12, 2025 elections.

He also acknowledged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for their readiness to ensure a smooth midterm elections.

“I am grateful for all the support, for the people who stand with me as I file for re-election. Every election is a challenge, and my hope is for a peaceful process,” he said.

Gomez also revealed that police authorities have confirmed a security threat to him and his family, prompting them to take extra precautions and strengthen their security measures.
“There is indeed a threat, as confirmed by the PNP, which is why we are being very careful.

It’s unfortunate because, in all the years Lucy and I have been in politics, we’ve never faced threats like this—except in this election. But we just have to be prepared,” Gomez added.

Gomez is running under the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, in coalition with four other political parties allied with the administration of Pres. Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)