A wave of grief swept through online, in Bohol and elsewhere, both near and far following the death of Captain Abdul Wallace, a man remembered not only for his warmth and generosity, but for the enduring light he brought into the lives of those around him.
Wallace’s passing was confirmed on June 22, prompting an outpouring of tributes online and in person from friends, family, and public figures. He was widely known for his kind nature, quiet strength, and unwavering loyalty to his family and friends.
“We are often saddened by the death of a good person, especially when one is dear to us,” said Balilihan Mayor Pureza Veloso-Chatto in a statement. “Death is a destination we all share. It also reminds us of the brevity of life so that we have to make every moment matter. Abdul spent a meaningful life with his family. His memory will beautifully live forever in the hearts of his loving family and in the many people he has touched.”
Mayor Veloso-Chatto and her husband, former Bohol governor and Rep. Atty. Edgar Chatto, shared a personal connection with Wallace and his wife, Chan, having stood as principal sponsors at their wedding. “Edgar and I are blessed to be part of Abdul and Chan’s journey together as a couple,” she added.
Wallace’s sister, Mellanie Wallace, posted a moving tribute on Facebook, struggling to grasp the reality of his loss.
“I still can’t believe you’re gone,” she wrote. “You were my brother—not just by blood, but by soul. You had this light in you—so warm, so real.”
The heartbreak was echoed across social media, where friends and loved ones shared stories of Wallace’s authenticity, joy, and presence.
“Though you are gone, your light continues to shine in our hearts,” said close friend Shigeo Rodriguez. “Wanay mu pa kurat nako ug mu laag ko sa Bee Farm, Capt. Rest in peace, Capt. Abdul Wallace.”
Jocelle Manigque expressed disbelief and sorrow in a raw message: “Dul, di ko katuo. Abdul Wallace, you’re one of the purest and truest friends I’ve ever known. Rest in Paradise, dul.”
Adryan Mila, another friend, reflected on the depth of their friendship. “Today I lost a friend who truly LIVED! Till next time, IDOL,” he said.
John Ompad described Wallace as “pinakabuotan og pinaka way libog nga amigo”—a good and uncomplicated friend. “Thank you for the memories doh,” he said. “Until we meet again. Rest in Peace, my friend.”
Celsa Dano also shared her sorrow: “Our hearts are filled with sadness and tears. You will always be in our hearts, forever… Fly high my Captain dude, Abdul Kareem Wallace. Love you so much, Dude.”
As tributes continue to pour in, Wallace is remembered not just for who he was, but for how he made others feel—valued, safe, and seen.
He leaves behind his wife, Chan, and their children, who have been in the prayers of many as they navigate their profound loss.
“Stay strong Chan,” Manigque added. “We’ll keep you and the kids in our prayers.”
Wallace, 39, son of the owner of the renowned Bohol Bee Farm, died in a drowning incident while spearfishing near Virgin Island in Barangay Poblacion, Panglao, Bohol on Sunday morning, June 22, 2025.
According to Panglao police, Wallace and a companion set out around 6 a.m. aboard a pump boat for a spearfishing session.
After relocating to another area near Virgin Island, the companion briefly left the site. Upon returning, Wallace was no longer visible at the surface.
Alarmed, the companion sought help from nearby Bantay Dagat personnel.
A search and retrieval operation ensued, and divers eventually located Wallace’s body at a depth of approximately 28 meters. He was reportedly wearing weights and free-diving without any breathing apparatus.
Based on data from his dive computer, Wallace had descended to 16 meters and attempted to resurface, but may have run out of breath before reaching the surface.