General Romeo Acop: Distinguished Public Servant and Igorot Pride | Igorotage
General Romeo Macusi Acop is a Filipino politician, retired police general, and recipient of the Distinguished Conduct Star, the second highest military award in the Philippines. He served as Representative for Antipolo’s 2nd District from 2010 to 2019, and again in 2022.
Early life and education
Acop was born in Sudipen, La Union, Philippines on March 11, 1947. He comes from a family of Igorot descent, and he is proud of his heritage. He graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Magiting” class in 1970 with honors and from José Rizal University in 1986 with a law degree.
Military career
After graduating from PMA, Acop joined the Philippine National Police (PNP). He served in various positions in the PNP, including the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). In 1999, he was promoted to the rank of Chief Superintendent. In this role, he was credited with the successful operations against several high-profile criminals, including the arrest of the notorious kidnapping-for-ransom gang headed by Antonio Lejano.
Acop’s tenure as Chief Superintendent of the CIDG was marked by a number of high-profile successes. In 1999, he led the team that arrested Antonio Lejano, the leader of a notorious kidnapping-for-ransom gang. Lejano was responsible for the kidnapping and murder of several high-profile individuals, including the son of a former Philippine president. Acop’s team also arrested several other members of the Lejano gang, including his wife and brother.
In 2000, Acop’s team also arrested a group of terrorists who were planning to bomb several targets in Manila. The terrorists were members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), a terrorist group that is fighting for an independent Islamic state in the southern Philippines. Acop’s team was able to foil the terrorist plot and prevent a major tragedy.
Acop’s accomplishments as Chief Superintendent of the CIDG earned him a number of awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Conduct Star (DCS), the second highest military award, for his role in the arrest of the Lejano gang.
- The Distinguished Conduct Star (DCS) is awarded to individuals who have displayed exceptional courage and leadership in combat. Acop’s actions in the arrest of the Lejano gang were considered to be of the highest order of courage and leadership. He displayed exceptional bravery in the face of danger, and he was able to successfully capture several dangerous criminals.
- The award was presented to Acop by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in a ceremony at Camp Crame in 2000. Acop was the first Igorot to be awarded the DCS.
Political career
Acop retired from the PNP in 2001 and ran for Congress in 2010. He won the election and was re-elected in 2013 and 2016. As a congressman, Acop has authored or co-authored several laws, including the Anti-Cybercrime Act of 2012 and the K-12 Law. He is also a member of several committees in the House of Representatives, including the Public Order and Safety Committee, the Appropriations Committee, and the Health Committee.
- Acop is a strong advocate for law and order. He has been a vocal critic of crime and corruption, and he has worked to pass laws that will make the Philippines a safer place to live.
- He is also a strong supporter of education, and he has worked to improve the quality of education in the Philippines.
Personal life and legacy
Acop is married to Resurreccion Acop and they have three children. He is a devout Catholic and is known for his strong anti-crime stance. He is also a proud member of the Igorot community and he has always been vocal about his Igorot heritage.
- Acop is the brother of retired Major General Reynaldo Acop of PMA Class 1971 and cousin of West Point graduate COL Dennis Acop.
- He is a respected and accomplished individual who has made significant contributions to the Philippines in his military career, political career, and personal life. He is a role model for many and his legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come.
Conclusion
Romeo Acop is a distinguished public servant and Igorot pride. He has made significant contributions to the Philippines in his military career, political career, and personal life. He is a role model for many and his legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come.
Acop is a man of courage, integrity, and dedication. He has always put the needs of others before his own, and he has worked tirelessly to make the Philippines a better place. He is a true patriot, and he is an inspiration to us all.