Lucy Torres openly criticizes DQ Veloso and Tacoy in a public statement.
In the midst of May 2025, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez found herself embroiled in a disqualification case filed by Victor E. Veloso III and another unnamed candidate for the seat of representative in Leyte's 4th district. Meanwhile, another candidate, Bernardino Tacoy, faced a separate disqualification case set for May 12, 2025.
The basis for the disqualification petition aligns with Section 68 (e) of Section 261 (e) of the Omnibus Election Code, which condemns threats, intimidation, terrorism, use of fraudulent devices, or other forms of coercion.
The case against Tacoy was bolstered by a Facebook video with over 9,900 views. In the video, Tacoy declared, "In the election, we should treat each other with respect, no matter your choice. But let's commit to serving the people better. But in the upcoming election, if you want to take Matag-ob, be prepared for bloodshed. Challenge me if you dare."
On Veloso's part, another video surfaced on his Facebook account, where he stated, "This is what you need to remember, because I am just putting the devil to sleep inside me. Before I used to go to mass daily. But don't make any effort to awaken the devil, and if the need arises for me to kill, I will kill."
These videos raised concern among many residents of Leyte's 4th district. Furthermore, Tacoy and Veloso's actions fell under Section 4 (a) of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. The SuperBalita will reveal more details as the case against Tacoy and Veloso unfolds.
Incidentally, Lucy Torres-Gomez herself filed a disqualification case against Kerwin Espinosa, alleging Omnibus Election Code violations due to threats made against her husband, Richard Gomez. Additionally, she plans to file criminal cases under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 against Espinosa, Tacoy, and Veloso for similar threats.
- The alarming statements made by candidates Bernardino Tacoy and Victor E. Veloso in their respective Facebook videos, as well as Lucy Torres-Gomez's claims against Kerwin Espinosa, have raised concerns about threats and intimidation in the upcoming elections in Leyte's 4th district.
- The disqualification cases filed against Tacoy and Veloso, along with the potential criminal charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, are a testament to the importance of justice and policy-and-legislation in ensuring fair and peaceful elections.
- As the SuperBalita continues to report on the unfolding cases against Tacoy and Veloso, the general news coverage will undoubtedly shed light on the integral role of politics in addressing war-and-conflicts and maintaining a peaceful society.
