The province of Bohol is in mourning following the sudden death of Vice Governor Dionisio Victor A. Balite.
The 52-year-old public servant passed away on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in a hospital in Tagbilaran City.
The cause of his death has not been disclosed by the family.
Balite’s passing was confirmed by the official Facebook page of the Bohol provincial government on Thursday.
“Our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy go out to the Balite family during this difficult time. The province has lost a compassionate leader and a true advocate for the people,” the Capitol said.
Born into a family with a strong political background, Balite was the youngest of six children of former Bohol Vice Governor Dionisio Dajalos Balite and the late Dr. Lilia Balite.
Before entering politics, he served as a high school principal and dean at BIT International College, formerly known as the Bohol Institute of Technology (BIT).
His career in public service began in 2016 when he was elected as a provincial board member.
He was reelected in 2019 and served until 2022, during which he chaired the Committee of Social Services and became a senior board member.
In the 2022 elections, Balite was elected as the Vice Governor of Bohol.
He also held the position of president of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines in Central Visayas.
His leadership was further recognized when he assumed the role of acting governor after Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado and 68 other officials were placed under preventive suspension in May over the controversial Captain’s Peak Resort project in the Chocolate Hills.
Governor Aris Aumentado expressed his sorrow over Balite’s passing in a heartfelt social media post.
“Vice Governor, sa kanunay, ang imong ngalan ug mga handumanan, magpabilin sa among panumduman, bisan pa man sa imong pagbiya (forever, your name and memories, remain in our memory, even after your departure),” Aumentado wrote.
Balite’s wake is being held at the BIT International College Dao Chapel until July 30, with the tentative date for his funeral set for July 31 at the Victoria Memorial Park.
The news of Balite’s death has elicited an outpouring of condolences and tributes from colleagues, friends, and constituents.
Bohol 3rd District Representative Alexie Tutor shared her fond memories of Balite, highlighting his perseverance and dedication.
“VG, thank you for being such an understanding person. You will always be remembered by the people who know you best. Your perseverance against all odds is a trait we all should emulate. Rest well our Vice Governor. Thank you for serving Bohol,” Tutor said.
2nd District Representative Vanessa Aumentado, the wife of Governor Aumentado, also paid tribute to Balite’s legacy.
“Thank you for being such a good person. You were always ready to help and serve the Bol-anons. We love you VG Dionisio Victor Balite. Thank you for all the beautiful memories,” she said.
First District Rep. Edgar M. Chatto said: “It is a privilege and honor to have worked with Acting Gov. Victor Balite. We shared cherished memories when he was serving as board member and I was governor. His passing is certainly a loss for the people of Bohol. We pray for peace and comfort for the Balite family and offer our condolences at this difficult time. May God give Victor eternal rest.”
With Balite’s passing, Provincial Board Member Tita Baja has assumed the role of acting governor, while Board Member Benjie Arcama is now the acting vice governor.
The province of Bohol has lost a dedicated leader whose contributions to public service and education have left an indelible mark, said Board Member Mimi Boniel.
Capitol said: “as we mourn we celebrate the life and legacy of Vice Governor Victor Balite, a man remembered for his compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the people of Bohol.”