Romeo Macusi Acop, also known as General Romeo Acop and Congressman Acop, is a celebrated Filipino politician, a retired police general, and a recipient of the prestigious Distinguished Conduct Star, the second-highest military honor in the Philippines. Explore the remarkable journey and enduring legacy of Romeo Acop, a name synonymous with courage and service.
Key Takeaways:
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Distinguished Career: General Romeo Acop, often referred to as Gen. Acop or Congressman Acop, boasts an illustrious career that spans law enforcement, military service, and politics.
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Heroic Achievements: General Acop's leadership in the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), where he played a crucial role in arresting high-profile criminals, including a notorious kidnapping-for-ransom gang leader, earned him the prestigious Distinguished Conduct Star.
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Political Contributions: As Congressman Acop, he played a pivotal role in crafting legislation, advocating for law and order, championing education reforms in the Philippines, and representing Antipolo's 2nd District in Rizal Province, CaLaBaRZon (Region 4A).
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Family Legacy: General Romeo Acop's family includes notable members such as his brother, retired Major General Reynaldo Acop of PMA Class 1971, and his cousin, West Point graduate COL Dennis Acop. Their distinguished military backgrounds add to the family's legacy of public service.
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PMA Class: General Romeo Acop belongs to the PMA "Magiting" class of 1970, where he graduated with honors and began his illustrious military career.
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Inspiring Legacy: General Romeo Acop's enduring influence serves as a beacon of Filipino heroism and public service, inspiring generations with his courage, integrity, and dedication.
Early Life and Education
Romeo Acop: The Early Years
Born on March 11, 1947, in Sudipen, La Union, Philippines, Romeo Macusi Acop boasts a proud heritage of Igorot descent. He graduated with honors from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Magiting" class in 1970 and earned a law degree from José Rizal University in 1986.
Military Career and Heroic Achievements
General Romeo Macusi Acop: A Courageous Leader
Following his graduation from PMA, General Romeo Macusi Acop, often referred to as Gen. Acop, dedicated his life to the Philippine National Police (PNP). His illustrious career spanned various pivotal roles, including the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). Notably, in 1999, his leadership led to the apprehension of Antonio Lejano, the notorious mastermind behind a high-profile kidnapping-for-ransom gang.
General Acop's tenure as Police Chief Superintendent (now equivalent to Police Brigadier General) of the CIDG was marked by a string of remarkable successes. In a bold operation, he apprehended Antonio Lejano, responsible for the kidnapping and murder of several prominent figures, including the son of a former Philippine president. His team also arrested other key members of the Lejano gang, including his wife and brother.
In 2000, Acop's team thwarted a terrorist plot in Manila, apprehending members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) intent on carrying out bombings. For his exceptional courage and leadership, General Romeo Macusi Acop was honored with the Distinguished Conduct Star (DCS), presented by the Philippine National Police in a historic ceremony at Camp Crame in 2000. He was the first proud Igorot to receive this prestigious accolade.
Political Career and Contributions
Congressman Acop: A Visionary Legislator
Retiring from the PNP in 2001, Romeo Acop, also known as Congressman Acop, embarked on a political journey, winning the congressional election in 2010. His re-election victories in 2013 and 2016 showcased his unwavering commitment to public service. As a congressman, Romeo Acop has played a pivotal role in authoring and co-authoring several influential laws, including the Anti-Cybercrime Act of 2012 and the K-12 Law. He serves on various committees in the House of Representatives, championing public order, safety, appropriations, and healthcare.
A staunch advocate for law and order, Congressman Acop has consistently fought against crime and corruption, tirelessly working to create a safer Philippines. Furthermore, his support for education has led to initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education in the country.
Personal Life and Everlasting Legacy
The Family Man
Romeo Acop is married to Resurreccion Acop, and they are blessed with three children. Beyond his family, Acop's devotion to his Catholic faith is unwavering, aligning with his resolute stance against crime. He proudly represents the Igorot community, always vocal about his heritage.
Notably, Romeo Acop is the brother of retired Major General Reynaldo Acop of PMA Class 1971 and the cousin of West Point graduate COL Dennis Acop, adding to his esteemed family lineage.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Who is General Romeo Acop?
A: General Romeo Acop is a distinguished Filipino public servant and retired police general known for his exceptional career in law enforcement and contributions to the Philippines.
Q2: What awards and honors has General Romeo Acop received?
A: General Romeo Acop has received the Distinguished Conduct Star (DCS), the second-highest military award in the Philippines, for his exceptional leadership and courage in combat and law enforcement.
Q3: Tell me about General Romeo Acop's early life and education.
A: General Romeo Acop was born in Sudipen, La Union, Philippines, on March 11, 1947. He graduated with honors from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Magiting" class in 1970 and later earned a law degree from José Rizal University in 1986.
Q4: What notable achievements did General Romeo Acop have in his military career?
A: General Romeo Acop, also known as Gen. Acop, had a successful career in the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). He was credited with arresting high-profile criminals, including the leader of a kidnapping-for-ransom gang and members of a terrorist group.
Q5: How did General Romeo Acop contribute to Philippine legislation?
A: General Romeo Acop, in his role as Congressman Acop, authored or co-authored several laws, including the Anti-Cybercrime Act of 2012 and the K-12 Law. He also served on various committees in the House of Representatives.
Q6: Can you tell me about General Romeo Acop's personal life and family?
A: General Romeo Acop is married to Resurreccion Acop, and they are blessed with three children. Beyond his family, Acop's devotion to his Catholic faith is unwavering, aligning with his resolute stance against crime. He proudly represents the Igorot community, always vocal about his heritage.
Q7: Which Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class did General Romeo Acop belong to?
A: General Romeo Acop belonged to the PMA "Magiting" class of 1970, where he graduated with honors and began his illustrious military career.
Q8: Does General Romeo Acop have notable siblings or cousins in the military or public service?
A: Yes, General Romeo Acop is the brother of retired Major General Reynaldo Acop of PMA Class 1971. He is also the cousin of West Point graduate COL Dennis Acop, further highlighting his family's distinguished military background.
Conclusion
In closing, Romeo Acop, whether referred to as Gen. Acop, Congressman Acop, or simply Romeo Acop, stands as a shining beacon of Filipino heroism and public service. His indomitable spirit, unwavering integrity, and relentless dedication have left an indelible mark on the nation. As we celebrate his legacy, Romeo Acop's enduring influence continues to ignite the hearts and minds of countless Filipinos, reinforcing the timeless
