Antipolo Rep. Romeo Acop speaks during one of the House hearings in this photo taken on May 17, 2023. (File photo from a video posted on the Facebook page of the House of Representatives)
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa is a “real opportunist” and a “lapdog” of former President Rodrigo Duterte for having said that some House members are being “unprincipled and opportunistic” on the issue of the previous administration’s anti-drug war.
This statement was made by Antipolo City 2nd District Rep. Romeo Acop on Sunday.
His view comes after dela Rosa rebuked some lawmakers, who were once “singing hallelujah” and “thanking” Duterte and his allies for the war against illegal drugs.
READ: Bato lashes back at drug war supporters-turned-critics
“If anyone is the real opportunist, it’s Sen. Dela Rosa, who shamelessly used his ties with the former president to rise from PNP chief to senator, leading a bloody drug war that targeted the powerless while shielding the powerful,” Acop said.
“Don’t act like a K9 of the previous administration. Prioritize the country’s interests and the general welfare of the people,” he advised dela Rosa.
Acop, who was a former PNP general, compared his political journey to the senator.
“I ran and won as a congressman on my own merit, not by clinging to anyone’s coattails. My job is to uncover the truth and ensure accountability, no matter who is implicated,” the House member said.
Acop serves as vice chair of all four committees in the House that are investigating the alleged links between Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, the illegal drug trade and extrajudicial killings tied to Duterte’s war against illegal drugs.
The lawmaker dared dela Rosa to name names and be specific about who he’s referring to in his recent remarks.
“We are here to serve the Filipino people, not to act as pawns in anyone’s political game. Unlike Sen. Dela Rosa, our focus is on the truth, and we will not be deterred by threats or accusations,” Acop added.