He studied at the University of the Philippines Diliman, shifting in at least three courses until he dropped out to focus on a burgeoning showbiz career.
[1] Topacio joined Philippine Educational Theater Association in 1969 and has been involved with several of its productions.
Film director Lino Brocka introduced him to television and allowed him to direct productions in another medium.
[1] Topacio directed Grandpa Is Dead, the Philippine entry for the 2010 Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film.
The news was confirmed by several posts from his friends in the film industry, who paid tribute to Topacio on social media.