MANILA — The House of Representatives is mourning the death of Antipolo City 2nd District Rep. Romeo Macusi Acop, whom Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III described as an honest, brave, and principled public servant.

“Lubos na nagdadalamhati ang Kapulungan ng mga Kinatawan sa pagpanaw ni Antipolo City 2nd District Rep. Romeo Macusi Acop, isang lingkod-bayang tapat, matapang at may matibay na paninindigan,” Dy said in a statement issued Sunday.

Dy said Acop was a model of integrity in public service, noting that in every role he held, he made clear that the law should serve the people and that power is a responsibility, not a privilege.

“Malaking kawalan ang kanyang pagpanaw para sa Kongreso, para sa Antipolo at para sa sambayanang Pilipino,” Dy said, adding that Acop’s example as a dignified and upright public servant will continue to guide the institutions he served.

The Speaker said the House joins Acop’s family, friends, and loved ones in mourning his death. “Maraming salamat, Cong. Romeo Acop. Ang inyong serbisyo, dangal, at mga makabuluhang kontribusyon ay hindi namin malilimutan,” Dy said.

Acop died at the age of 78, according to his party mate and longtime friend, Antipolo City 1st District Rep. Ronaldo Puno. Puno, chairman of the National Unity Party, said the former police official suffered a heart attack on Saturday night.

“Our hearts are broken. He was a friend for more than 25 years and a devoted, courageous, honest public servant,” Puno said.

Puno said Acop had undergone a successful kidney transplant in late November and had been recovering well. “He was ‘recovering well and…was up and about,’” Puno said, adding, “We were excited for his imminent return to us.”

Puno’s statement followed reports that Acop experienced a medical emergency at home on Saturday evening. He was reportedly brought to a hospital but was pronounced dead later that night.