Rep. Richard Gomez apologizes for posting reporters' private messages online

Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez apologized to members of the press for posting screenshots of their private messages online, acknowledging it was a violation of their data privacy.

He stated that he understood the media's efforts to obtain his side of the story regarding allegations by Matag-ob, Leyte Mayor Bernie Tacoy about a flawed flood control project.

Gomez has since removed the screenshots, which showed the names, photos, and contact details of journalists who sought his comments.

The House beat reporters had criticized Gomez's actions, asserting that his unfounded allegations of a funded "media spin" were made with reckless disregard for the journalists' personal safety.

They clarified that their requests for his reaction were part of an ethical journalistic practice to give him an opportunity to present his side.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) also called out Gomez's remarks and reminded him that he had potentially violated data privacy.