Why Richard Gomez Can’t Be Jailed Over Alleged Assault on Rene Gacuma
RICHARD GOMEZ – The controversy surrounding Leyte Representative Richard Gomez and fencing official Rene Gacuma has taken a new turn after the Palace clarified why no criminal case can be filed.
Leyte Representative Richard Gomez has reportedly avoided facing criminal charges over the incident involving Philippine Fencing Association (PFA) President Rene Gacuma that occurred in Thailand during the Southeast Asian Games.
According to Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro, the congressman, cannot be charged with a criminal case in the Philippines because the alleged act of physical assault and verbal abuse happened outside the country. Castro explained that Philippine courts do not have jurisdiction over crimes committed abroad, which limits the legal options available to the aggrieved party.
Photo Source: Tempo
Atty. Castro clarified that while a criminal complaint cannot be pursued locally, Gacuma may still explore filing a civil case in the Philippines to seek compensation or damages for what he allegedly suffered as a result of Gomez’s actions. This, she said, remains a viable legal remedy under existing laws.
“Ang crime was committed in Thailand. Ang criminal case natin dito sa Pilipinas ay jurisdictional, kung saan naganap ‘yung krimen, doon lang puwedeng isampa,”
saad ni Castro.
She further noted that the incident may not qualify as a case of physical injuries unless there is proof that Gacuma sustained visible harm, such as bruises or wounds from the alleged act. Without such physical evidence, the situation may not meet the legal threshold required for filing a physical injury complaint under Philippine law.
Despite this, Castro added that there are still other avenues available for Gacuma. One possible step is to file a complaint before the Ethics Committee of the House of Representatives. This option focuses not on criminal liability, but on the conduct and behavior of a sitting lawmaker, especially during an official or international event where decorum is expected.
Photo Source: Manila Standard
The incident, which took place on foreign soil during a major international sporting event, has sparked public discussion not only about legal jurisdiction but also about the standards of behavior expected from public officials representing the country abroad. While criminal prosecution may no longer be an option in this case, the matter continues to raise questions about responsibility, ethics, and appropriate conduct among government officials.
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