Romeo Jalosjos, former Zamboanga del Norte congressman, dies at 85
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Former Zamboanga del Norte 1st District congressman Romeo Jalosjos has died, his son Seth announced on Sunday, August 2. He was 85.
Jalosjos was a member of the Ferdinand E. Marcos-era Batasang Pambansa. He later returned to Congress as representative of Zamboanga del Norte in the 1990s.
His political career was marred by controversy after he was accused of raping an 11-year-old girl, a charge he denied. The Supreme Court in 2002 upheld his conviction for statutory rape, ending his tenure in the House of Representatives and barring him from continuing in public office.
His prison sentence was later commuted by then-president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and he was released in 2009.
Despite his conviction and removal from office, Jalosjos remained a major political figure in Zamboanga del Norte. He was the patriarch of one of the province’s most influential political families, with several of his children and relatives later holding elected positions in local and national government.
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Beyond politics, Jalosjos was a wealthy businessman. He was among those who started the noontime television show Eat Bulaga!
He was also behind Dakak, a well-known luxury beach resort in Dapitan City.
His son Seth said the wake and viewing services will be held at The Heritage Park in Taguig City from August 3 to 5, and will then be moved to the family-owned Gloria de Dapitan Complex in Dapitan City from August 6 to August 12.
In a statement, the Jalosjos family said he dedicated his life to public service and community development. They described him as “a leader who listened, a champion of the underserved, and a father to his people.” – Rappler.com
