In the world of politics, it’s rare to see someone transition seamlessly from the limelight of showbiz to the demanding realm of public service, yet Richard “Goma” Gomez has done just that. His story stands as a testament to how celebrity influence can be channeled into genuine leadership.

Goma’s political journey was not without its challenges. He faced numerous setbacks and legal hurdles, but his commitment to public service remained unwavering. His perseverance paid off in 2016, when he was elected mayor of Ormoc City, Leyte. After two successful terms, he passed the baton to his wife, the capable Lucy Torres-Gomez, before stepping into a new role as congressman for Leyte’s fourth district—once held by Lucy, who is now serving as Ormoc’s mayor.

Unlike many former actors who venture into politics only to fall short, Goma has proven himself a man of substance. When he became mayor in 2016, Ormoc City had earned a reputation as the drug capital of Eastern Visayas. Yet within two years, the city was declared the safest in the Philippines by the Philippine National Police’s Crime Research and Analysis Center—a title it held through 2018 and 2019. Today, Ormoc is drug-free and serves as a model of effective governance.

Under Goma’s leadership, Ormoc transformed into the wealthiest city in the Eastern Visayas, boasting assets of P7.47 billion by the end of 2022, a 9.37% increase from the previous year. The city has become an economic hub for western Leyte, rich in resources like Lake Danao, which supplies much of Leyte’s water, and its renowned sweet pineapple.

One of Goma’s proudest accomplishments was securing Ormoc City’s ISO 18091 certification, the first in the country. This certification, specific to local governments, highlights Goma’s dedication to improving the efficiency and quality of local governance.

Since his election to Congress in 2022, Goma has continued to impress. He has filed 70 bills—38 on a national scale and 32 for local issues. Thirteen of these bills have passed the House and are awaiting Senate approval. Among his most notable proposals are the creation of a national sports development program, focusing on the country’s national games, and the establishment of disaster relief and emergency centers in Ormoc and nearby municipalities.

Goma has also authored legislation aimed at enhancing the lives of his constituents, including the establishment of healthcare facilities such as the Ormoc City Heart Center, Kidney Center, and Lung Center, along with a regional hospital. Additionally, he has championed educational initiatives, including a TESDA center, a City College, and new national high schools in underserved areas.

For a first-term congressman, Goma’s achievements are exceptional and have silenced those who once doubted his political aspirations. His success is driven not only by his passion for public service but also by his solid academic foundation. Goma holds an MBA and a doctorate in public administration, qualifications that have equipped him with the tools to effectively manage the complexities of governance. He earned a degree in Associate in Arts from the University of the Philippines Open University (2009), an MBA from the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA (2016), and a doctorate in public administration from Cebu Technological University (2019).

This new breed of leadership—anchored in education, experience, and proven results—presents a refreshing model for the future of Filipino politics. Goma’s accomplishments are reflected not just in his credentials, but in the tangible improvements he has made in the lives of his constituents. As the country seeks leaders capable of making a real difference, Richard Gomez stands out as a public servant we should all support.