Philippine Fencing Association (PFA) Rene Gacuma has accused Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez of physically attacking him during the fencing competitions at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
Gacuma reported the incident in a letter to Philippines chef de mission Raul Canlas, saying it occurred last Tuesday at the Fashion Mall, where the SEA Games fencing events are held.
The altercation reportedly arose after fencer Alexa Larrazabal was replaced in the individual women’s epee event. Gacuma said he was congratulating Gomez for his silver medal in the shooting competitions when the incident occurred.
“When I extended my right hand to congratulate Mr. Gomez, he planted his right foot heavily on my left foot to limit my mobility. He squeezed my right thumb very hard like he wanted to dislocate it and simultaneously said ‘who gave you the authority to replace that athlete?’ Na-take up ninyo ito sa Board Meeting in my (Mr. Gomez’s presence)? (Expletive) mo Rene. (Expletive) ka,” Gacuma said in the letter.
Gomez, a PFA director and second vice president of the Philippine Olympic Committee, has shared his side of the altercation.