Kerwin Espinosa Responds to Richard Gomez: “Hindi naman ako tulad sa kaniya na artista eh”
KERWIN ESPINOSA – A mayoral candidate in Albuera, Leyte, has responded to Congressman and actor Richard Gomez’s claim that the recent shooting incident involving Espinosa was staged.
Espinosa stated, “Hindi naman ‘to acting. Hindi naman ako tulad sa kaniya na artista eh.” He also raised concerns about the presence of Ormoc City police officers in Albuera during the shooting. He, his brother, and a child were injured in the incident while campaigning. “Why were his police officers there? Even the city director and intelligence personnel were present. Answer that, Richard Gomez. Did you send them?” Espinosa questioned.
Gomez earlier commented that the ambush appeared “scripted” and poorly executed. He added that he was still gathering more information about the incident.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has identified seven Ormoc-based police officers as persons of interest. A vehicle reportedly seen speeding away from the area after the shooting had previously entered a compound where the officers were also spotted.
Espinosa believes politics may have motivated the attack. He is running against Leyte Board Member Vince Rama, who is married to Karen Torres—the sister of Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez and the sister-in-law of Richard Gomez.
Results of ballistic and paraffin tests on the seven police officers are expected by Monday, April 14. However, according to Leyte Provincial Police Director Col. Dionisio DC Apas Jr., the officers were not at the actual crime scene, and no direct evidence or testimony has identified which of them may have been involved.
While the investigation is ongoing, Ormoc City Police Chief Col. Reydante Ariza has been relieved of his post. Police Lt. Mary Antonette Espina, spokesperson for the Leyte Provincial Police Office, emphasized that the investigation will be thorough, impartial, and based on solid evidence and established procedures.
Related Post: Kerwin Espinosa Shot During Campaign Event, Person of Interest Identified