A storm is brewing—not in the skies, but in the world of politics—as actor-turned-public servant Richard Gomez finds himself at the center of a controversy involving millions in public funds. The former Ormoc City mayor and now Congressman is being questioned over alleged anomalies tied to flood control projects under his watch. And the public is demanding answers.

The issue exploded after several reports surfaced claiming that significant amounts—believed to be in the tens of millions—allocated for flood control infrastructure are now unaccounted for. These funds were meant to improve drainage systems and prevent widespread flooding in vulnerable areas, a long-standing problem in many parts of Leyte.

Now, those plans are under scrutiny, and the person in the hot seat is none other than Gomez himself.

The accusations stem from an audit that revealed inconsistencies between reported spending and actual progress on the ground. Some projects were listed as completed but appear to be either stalled or non-existent. Others, which were supposed to be in full swing, have been described by local residents as nothing more than hollow promises.

One concerned official, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed, “There’s a big discrepancy between what was reported and what we can actually see in the field. People are asking, ‘Where did the money go?’”

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has reportedly been tapped to assist in the investigation, reviewing project documents, fund disbursements, and physical inspections of supposed project sites. Meanwhile, the Commission on Audit (COA) has begun preliminary inquiries, signaling that this issue may soon escalate into a full-blown probe.

Richard Gomez, known for his charisma both on-screen and in politics, has responded with denial, calling the allegations “politically motivated.” In a brief interview, he stated, “I have always served with transparency and integrity. These accusations are not only baseless—they are clearly meant to tarnish my reputation.”

But not everyone is convinced.

Social media has erupted with mixed reactions. Some staunch supporters defend Gomez, saying he’s being unfairly targeted as he rises through the political ranks. Others, however, are demanding full accountability, especially from a public figure who built his political brand on clean governance.

“What happened to the flood control projects? Our barangay still floods every time it rains,” one resident wrote online. “We trusted him because he said he would fix it. Now we feel betrayed.”

The controversy has reignited broader concerns about infrastructure corruption in the country. For many Filipinos, this feels all too familiar—projects announced with much fanfare, only to quietly disappear or remain incomplete years later.

If proven true, the implications are serious. Misuse of public funds, particularly in disaster mitigation, doesn’t just mean wasted money—it could cost lives. With climate change intensifying rainfall and typhoons becoming more frequent, flood control is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity.

Local groups and watchdog organizations are now pushing for transparency. Some are calling for Gomez to temporarily step down while the investigation is ongoing, though no formal complaints or charges have been filed as of this writing.

“Accountability is not an attack,” one civic leader said during a local press conference. “We’re not out to destroy anyone’s career. But when millions are missing and the people are left vulnerable, someone must answer for it.”

As the pressure mounts, questions remain: Will a deeper investigation reveal the truth behind the missing funds? Was this a case of poor oversight—or something far more deliberate? And most importantly, will justice be served?

The people of Ormoc and the surrounding areas are watching closely. For many of them, this isn’t just about politics. It’s about trust, safety, and whether the promises made to them will ever be fulfilled.

Richard Gomez, once praised for bringing showbiz flair into public service, now faces the challenge of his political life. Whether this storm clears—or destroys everything he’s built—depends on what the next few weeks will uncover.