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First Igorot West Point Graduate
Graduated from the United States Military Academy (USMA), West Point in 1983, marking a historic achievement for the Igorot community. -
Distinguished Military Service
Retired as Colonel from the Philippine Constabulary and Philippine Army in 2009. Awarded the Distinguished Service Star and the Distinguished Conduct Star for gallantry in action. -
Extensive Qualifications
Airborne, ranger, special forces, intelligence, and counter-terrorist qualified. Holds a Ph.D., multiple master's degrees, and a Diploma in Disaster Management from Cranfield University (UK). -
Accomplished Professional
Served as Director for Security and Business Continuity at Wyeth Nutrition and held key roles in Pfizer and Pacific Strategies and Assessments. -
Published Author and Scholar
Co-authored "Sentinels of Freedom: 100 Years of Presidential Security" and published articles in prestigious journals. -
Family Connections
Cousin of retired Police General Romeo Macusi Acop and his brother, retired Major General Reynaldo Acop, both highly respected in their respective careers.
COL Dencio "Dennis" Severo Acop (Ret) Ph.D., hailing from the Ibaloi tribe, stands out for his remarkable achievement as the first Igorot to graduate from the United States Military Academy (USMA), widely known as West Point. This elite institution, located in West Point, New York, is celebrated globally as one of the most prestigious military academies.
Historic Achievement at West Point
In 1983, COL Acop made history by becoming the first Igorot graduate of West Point. Known for its rigorous academic and military training, West Point represents the pinnacle of military education. His graduation not only marked a significant personal milestone but also served as an inspiration for the Igorot community and the broader Filipino population.
Distinguished Military Career
COL Acop's military career is distinguished by his service in the Philippine Constabulary and the Philippine Army, where he achieved the rank of Colonel before retiring in 2009. His dedication and leadership earned him several prestigious awards, including the Distinguished Service Star, the AFP's third-highest decoration, and the Distinguished Conduct Star, the second-highest AFP decoration for gallantry in action. Notably, during the December 1989 coup attempt, COL Acop led government troops against insurgents, earning him the Distinguished Conduct Star from President Corazon Aquino. Additionally, his service with the Presidential Security Group earned him the Presidential Medal of Merit from President Fidel V. Ramos, recognizing his integrity and professional excellence.
Extensive Military Training and Qualifications
COL Acop's military expertise is further highlighted by his extensive qualifications. He is airborne, ranger, special forces, intelligence, and counter-terrorist qualified, reflecting his comprehensive training in various aspects of military operations. He has also completed numerous career and special military courses in Infantry, Intelligence, and Command areas. This diverse training underpins his effective leadership and tactical skills throughout his career. Additionally, COL Acop holds a Diploma in Disaster Management from Cranfield University in the UK, showcasing his proficiency in handling crises and emergencies.
Academic and Professional Accomplishments
COL Acop's commitment to education is evident in his extensive academic qualifications. He holds a Ph.D. and multiple master's degrees from prominent institutions, including the University of the Philippines, the University of New South Wales (UNSW), and the Philippine Christian University (PCU). These qualifications complement his professional experience and enhance his expertise in security and business continuity.
He is also a Certified Protection Professional (CPP) accredited by ASIS International and holds a Certification in Business Continuity (CBCI) from the Business Continuity Institute (UK). These credentials reflect his comprehensive knowledge in security management and business continuity planning.
Contributions to Security and Business Continuity
After retiring from the military, COL Acop transitioned to the private sector, focusing on security and business continuity. He served as the Director for Security and Business Continuity at Wyeth Nutrition, now part of Nestlé, from 2013 to 2018. His responsibilities included managing security operations and continuity planning for the global nutrition company.
Before his tenure at Wyeth, COL Acop held significant positions with Pfizer as Associate Director of Global Security for the Asia-Pacific region (2010-2012) and with Pacific Strategies and Assessments (PSA) as Director for Security Services. His previous role as Wyeth's Country Manager for Security further underscores his expertise and leadership in the field.
Scholarly Contributions and Community Involvement
COL Acop's scholarly work includes co-authoring "Sentinels of Freedom: 100 Years of Presidential Security" and publishing articles in respected journals such as De La Salle University's Asia-Pacific Social Science Review and Ateneo de Davao's Tambara Journal. His contributions extend to his role as a lay liturgical minister, demonstrating his dedication to both his faith and community.
Family and Personal Life
COL Acop was married to Jocelyn Roxas Guerrero for 33 years, and together they raised three children. His family life, marked by a deep commitment to his loved ones, is a source of pride and fulfillment for him. Although Jocelyn has passed away, COL Acop continues to honor her memory and their shared journey.
COL Acop is also closely related to prominent figures in the Philippine military and police community. He is the cousin of retired Police General Romeo Macusi Acop, who served as congressman of Antipolo's 2nd District in Rizal Province. Romeo's brother, retired Major General Reynaldo Acop, is a distinguished alumnus of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1971.
Legacy of Excellence
COL Dencio Acop's career and personal life reflect a legacy of dedication and excellence. From his groundbreaking achievements at West Point to his influential roles in security, business continuity, and community service, his life's work exemplifies perseverance and impact.
His story serves as a powerful example of how commitment to one's goals and values can lead to groundbreaking achievements and lasting influence, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in their own endeavors.
