Richard Gomez: From star to official

Richard Gomez has nothing to prove anymore as an actor — he’s starred in many notable films and has, to date, maintained his status as one of the best leading men in the industry. He has now set his sights on being a public servant, but has not been as successful. He tells tabloid! why he is bent on becoming a public official.

Congratulations, you’ve just made it to the Philippine men’s volleyball team! How excited are you? And when is your next tournament?

I am very excited to be back in action. I used to be part of the Philippine rowing and fencing teams before. So after so many years, I am thankful I am still in shape to be able to play competitively. To play for the Philippines is a great honour. It’s a privilege to give something that our countrymen can be proud of.

The first tournament where I see action is at the first Asian Men’s Club Volleyball Championship, which will be held in the Philippines at the Cuneta Austrodome from April 8-16. Please watch all the games.

How do you stay fit?

I eat healthy and I exercise regularly. I keep myself active if I am not able to go to the gym. It’s a commitment and a lifestyle. I do this because I want to enjoy life more and be there for my kids when they grow up.

You are a very accomplished man — as an artist and athlete. Politics is your only Waterloo, having lost two bids in previous elections. Why do you want to be a public servant?

Because I feel that our people deserve more than what they are getting from our public servants now, especially the people of Leyte, where my wife [Lucy Torres Gomez] is from. I spend more time in Leyte than in Manila and I can really see the need for a more transparent and effective public leadership. Unfortunately, as you said, I have so far been unsuccessful.

Why do you think that is?

My luck, maybe? Or the disillusionment that people have about celebrities turning into politicians — that we don’t know how to run a public office. It’s a stigma that has stuck, But through my wife and her programmes, we have actively been showing that we do care and we have programmes that really uplift people’s lives; that we are here not to make money [like most do] but to really make a difference.

Are you still going to give it a try?

Absolutely. This is where my heart is now, and I hope people can see that.

Are you leaving showbiz at some point?

Everyone does [laughs]. You’re only as good as your last performance. When no one appreciates your work anymore, that’s the time to say goodbye.