Lawmakers Mourn the Passing of Rep. Romeo Acop, a Steadfast Voice for Justice
News of the passing of Representative Romeo Acop has sent a wave of grief across the House of Representatives and beyond, as colleagues, friends, and fellow public servants reflect on a life dedicated to justice, integrity, and service. Acop, who represented the 2nd District of Antipolo, died at the age of 78 after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, December 20. His death was confirmed by Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno, a close friend, who described him as a devoted, courageous, and honest public servant. It was said that both Congress and the country are poorer for his loss.
Tributes began pouring in almost immediately, with lawmakers highlighting not just Acop’s long years in public office, but the values he consistently stood for. House Speaker Faustino Dy III emphasized that Acop firmly believed the law existed for the welfare of the people, and that power was never a privilege, but a responsibility. His passing was described as a great loss not only for Congress, but for Antipolo and the entire Filipino nation. Still, it was stressed that his example as a principled and faithful public servant would continue to guide the institutions he once served.
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Representative Benny Abante of Manila echoed similar sentiments, remembering Acop as someone who always stood on the side of justice and never lost sight of the victims whose voices needed to be heard. In crucial moments during congressional hearings, Acop was remembered for showing courage, clarity, and moral conviction. It was often observed that he knew when firmness was required and when fairness was needed, guided by a deep belief that public office is a public trust that must always be exercised with integrity and respect for human rights.
Acop’s work in investigations was also widely praised. Representative Terry Ridon, who served alongside him as co-chair in the House Quad-Committee, recalled how their panel probed the links between criminal syndicates, government complicity, and corruption. Despite Acop’s passing, it was assured that the work he started would be continued, with accountability and meaningful reforms still being pursued. Representative Joel Chua went as far as calling Acop’s contributions a “masterclass” in criminal justice, saying lawmakers learned something valuable every time he spoke during hearings.
Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez also paid tribute, describing Acop’s leadership style as methodical, disciplined, and focused on accountability rather than theatrics. He was remembered as firm but fair, asking difficult questions while maintaining decency and respect for institutions. Above all, it was said that Acop never chased headlines. He simply showed up, did the work, and stayed true to the belief that public office is, and should always remain, a public trust.
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