Richard Gomez Under Fire for Alleged Assault at Southeast Asian Games

Leyte Representative Richard "Goma" Gomez finds himself embroiled in controversy following allegations of assault against a sports official at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, just days after claiming a silver medal in shooting.

The incident has cast a shadow over what should have been a moment of sporting pride for the Philippines, highlighting tensions within the country's sports administration that extend far beyond the playing field.

Allegations Surface Against Celebrity-Politician

Philippine Fencing Association president Rene Gacuma has formally accused Gomez of physical assault and threats stemming from a dispute over team selection decisions. The December 16 confrontation, captured on video, occurred at Fashion Island, the fencing tournament venue in Thailand.

According to Gacuma's detailed account to SEA Games chef de mission Raul Canlas, the altercation began when he attempted to congratulate Gomez on his recent shooting medal. Instead of a cordial exchange, Gacuma alleges Gomez "planted his right foot heavily on my left foot" and "squeezed my right thumb very hard like he wanted to dislocate it."

The confrontation escalated when Gomez allegedly demanded to know: "Who gave you the authority to replace that athlete? Na take up ninyo ito sa board meeting in my presence?"

Medical Emergency Follows Physical Confrontation

The situation deteriorated further when Gacuma, a quadruple bypass survivor with a heart pacemaker, required medical attention after his blood pressure spiked to a dangerous 220/180. Even at the medical station, Gacuma claims Gomez continued his aggressive behavior.

"Mr. Gomez walked toward me at a quick pace," Gacuma recounted. "While seated at the medical station and in the presence of Thai medical volunteers, he literally capped my jawline forcefully with his right hand."

The alleged threats continued with Gomez reportedly saying, "Di mo alam ang ginagawa mo! HR ka lang; wala kang alam sa pagiging atleta!" before warning "I know where you live!"

Dispute Centers on Team Selection

The root of the conflict traces back to December 14, when PFA directors unanimously decided to replace fencer Alexa Larrazabal in the individual women's epee event. Gomez, who serves as PFA board member and second vice president of the Philippine Olympic Committee, strongly opposed this decision.

"They decided on the eve of the event that our No. 1 fencer in epee was struck off the roster," Gomez explained in a News5 interview. "That has never happened to us at PFA, that you are the No. 1 fencer and you don't get to play."

Gomez admitted to his anger but justified his actions: "We had a confrontation. I was so mad. When the country is fighting for a medal, you don't field the weaker player."

Sports Leadership Calls for Resolution

Philippine Olympic Committee president Bambol Tolentino acknowledged awareness of the incident but emphasized that both parties should resolve the matter privately. "They should settle the matter among themselves. They're old enough as it is," Tolentino stated.

However, he made clear that such behavior would not be tolerated: "Definitely, we will not tolerate that. But being mature people, they should know the difference between right and wrong."

Gacuma has indicated his intention to pursue legal action, stating he will consult with lawyers to file a formal complaint against the congressman.

Broader Implications for Philippine Sports

This incident raises serious questions about governance and conduct within Philippine sports organizations. The involvement of a high-profile politician-athlete in such allegations threatens to overshadow the country's sporting achievements at the regional games.

The controversy also highlights the complex dynamics within Philippine sports administration, where political influence and athletic decision-making often intersect in ways that can create friction and compromise the integrity of competition.

As investigations proceed, the incident serves as a stark reminder that the values of sportsmanship and respect must extend beyond the competition arena to encompass all aspects of sports leadership and administration.