Romeo Jalosjos, former congressman and media executive, dies at 85

Former Zamboanga del Norte congressman and media executive Romeo "Nonong" Garcia Jalosjos has died at the age of 85, his family announced on Sunday.

His son, Seth "Bullet" Jalosjos, announced the death in a Facebook post. No other details were given on the cause of death.

"It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of our beloved father, Romeo 'Nonong' Garcia Jalosjos," he said.

The family described Jalosjos as a "distinguished media man, statesman, visionary, and pioneer" who dedicated his life to public service and community development.

In his tribute, Seth Jalosjos said his father's legacy would endure through the people and communities he served.

"Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that his remarkable life will continue to inspire generations to come. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten," he said.

Wake and viewing will be held at The Heritage Park in Taguig City from August 3 to 5 before his remains are brought to the Gloria de Dapitan Complex in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, from August 6 to 12, according to the family.

Jalosjos entered national politics in 1984 when he was elected to the Regular Batasang Pambansa. He later served multiple terms as representative of Zamboanga del Norte.

He was also known in the media industry as one of the founders of Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE), the production company behind the long-running noontime television program "Eat Bulaga!" for decades.

His political career was overshadowed by his conviction in a high-profile rape case.

In 1997, the Makati Regional Trial Court found Jalosjos guilty of two counts of statutory rape and six counts of acts of lasciviousness involving an 11-year-old girl. The Supreme Court affirmed his conviction in 2001 and 2002.

He was eventually removed from the House of Representatives after the conviction became final.

Despite his imprisonment, Jalosjos was reelected to Congress in 1998 and 2001 while his appeals were pending.

He was released from prison in 2009 after his sentence was commuted by then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. — MCG, GMA News