Former Zamboanga del Norte 1st District Representative Romeo “Nonong” Jalosjos Sr. has passed away at the age of 85, a loss confirmed by his son, former Dapitan City Mayor Seth “Bullet” Jalosjos.
“It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of our beloved father, Romeo “Nonong” Garcia Jalosjos,” Bullet stated in a social media post.
Expressing deep pride in his father’s legacy, Bullet wrote:
“A distinguished media man, statesman, visionary, and pioneer, he dedicated his life to serving others with unwavering courage, compassion, and purpose. To the people of Zamboanga del Norte, he was more than a public servant—he was a leader who listened, a champion of the underserved, and a father to his people. His life’s work was driven not by personal ambition, but by a genuine desire to uplift lives and create opportunities for generations to come.”
He further added:
“To us, he was simply Dad—our source of strength, our protector, our greatest teacher, and the heart of our family. His wisdom, generosity, resilience, and unconditional love shaped who we are and will continue to guide us for the rest of our lives.”
His wake will be held at The Heritage Park in Taguig City from August 3 to 5 before his remains are transferred to their family’s political stronghold in Dapitan City from August 6 to 12.
Prior to his career in politics, Jalosjos established himself as the founder of Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE), the former production company behind the country’s longest-running noontime variety show, “Eat… Bulaga!”.
Jalosjos was incarcerated in 1996 over allegations of raping a minor at his condominium—a charge he countered by claiming the victim was an adult sex worker. He was eventually released in 2009 after receiving a presidential pardon from former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
His name made headlines again in 2023 following a high-profile rift between TAPE Inc. and the iconic comedy trio of Senate President Pro Tempore Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon. The dispute centered on ownership of the trademark rights for “Eat Bulaga!,” “E.B.,” and associated segments and theme songs—a legal battle that was ultimately decided in favor of the comedy trio.