Romeo Jalosjos, Controversial Political and Media Figure, Dies at 86

Romeo Jalosjos, a controversial figure in Philippine politics and media who rose from modest beginnings to wield significant influence in business and broadcasting, died on Sunday, August 2, 2026. He was 86. The news was confirmed by his son, Bullet Jalosjos, who posted about it on his Facebook account. The young Jalosjos did not immediately reveal the cause of his father’s death.

Born in Dapitan City, Jalosjos built his early career in the fishing and shipping industries in Mindanao, eventually expanding into various business ventures. His entrepreneurial success paved the way for a political career, and he was elected congressman representing Zamboanga del Norte’s first district in the 1990s. During his time in public office, he positioned himself as a champion of local development, particularly in infrastructure and regional investment.

Jalosjos’ political trajectory, however, was overshadowed by legal troubles that would define much of his public life. In 1996, he was convicted of statutory rape and acts of lasciviousness involving a minor. The case led to his eventual imprisonment. Despite the conviction, he controversially won re-election while in detention, raising national debates about the qualifications and ethical standards expected of public officials. He served time in prison but remained a persistent, if polarizing, presence in Philippine politics through his family’s continued involvement in public office.

Following his release, Jalosjos shifted much of his focus to media and entertainment. He became associated with television production and ownership. He was co-founder and co-owner of Television and Production Exponents (TAPE), which is perhaps best-known for producing one of the longest-running variety shows on television, Eat Bulaga! He eventually handed ownership and control over the business to his children: son Romeo "Jon-jon" Jalosjos Jr. was appointed president and CEO, and another son, Bullet Jalosjos, as Chief Finance Officer (CFO) in 2023.

Beyond entertainment, the elder Jalosjos’ business interests extended into broadcasting, real estate, and local enterprises in Mindanao. His family also remained active in politics, with several relatives holding local and national positions, according to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ):  Seth Frederick "Bullet" Jalosjos, who is a former Dapitan City Mayor and congressman; Romeo "Jon-jon" Jalosjos Jr., representative for the 1st District of Zamboanga del Norte; Svetlana "Lana" Jalosjos-de Leon: Former TV host and mayor of Baliangao, Misamis Occidental; Rommel Jalosjos, former Zamboanga Sibugay Governor; and Maita Jalosjos, who ran for mayor of Dapitan City but lost to Belen Uy.

Meanwhile, his sibling that were involved in politics also include: Cesar Jalosjos, former 3rd District representative of Zamboanga del Norte; Rosalina Jalosjos: sister and former governor of Zamboanga Del Norte; Cecilia "Cely" Jalosjos-Carreon, former congresswoman and mayor; Dominador “Jun” Jalosjos Jr., former Dapitan mayor; and Anabel “Bebing” Jalosjos-Garcia, former provincial board member of Zamboanga Del Norte.

“To us, he was simply Dad—our source of strength, our protector, our greatest teacher, and the heart of our family,” his son Bullet said in his Facebook post. “His wisdom, generosity, resilience, and unconditional love shaped who we are and will continue to guide us for the rest of our lives.”

In his later years, Jalosjos maintained a lower public profile, though he remained involved in his businesses and continued to exert influence behind the scenes. He is survived by his family, many of whom continue to play active roles in public service and business.