CEBU CITY – The province of Bohol is mourning the death of its vice governor.
BOHOL Gov. Aris Aumentado visits the wake of Vice Gov. Victor Balite who passed away on Wednesday night, July 17. (Contributed photo)
Vice Gov. Dionisio Victor Balite died in a hospital in Tagbilaran City, Bohol on Wednesday night, July 17. The cause of death was not disclosed. He was 52.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved papa, Victor Balite. We kindly ask for your prayers for the eternal repose of his soul,” said Balite’s son, Rev. Fr. Bernadine Jade Dionne Balite, in a Facebook post.
Balite started his political career in 2016 when he was elected as board member. He won as vice governor in the 2022 elections.
On May 28 this year, Balite became the province’s acting governor after Gov. Aris Aumentado was preventively suspended by the Office Ombudsman over the Chocolate Hills fiasco.
Aumentado was among the colleagues, friends, and workers at Capitol who expressed their condolences.
“I lost a good friend and a loyal political partner. It is saddening but we know that our lives in this world are not infinite. I will use your legacy in the Aumentado-Balite administration as an inspiration to serve the Boholanos,” Aumentado said.
Bohol Rep. Alexie Tutor also shared her fond memories. The two, who have the same birth date, served together at the Provincial Board from 2016 to 2019.
“A person who is easy to get along with. VG, thank you for being such an understanding person. You will always be remembered by the people who know you best. Thank you for the memories especially during our campaign sortie where even though you were very tired, you were still very game. Your perseverance against all odds is a trait we all should emulate. Rest well our Vice Governor. Thank you for serving Bohol. Thank you for your love for the third district,” said Tutor.
Bohol Rep. Vanessa Aumentado, the wife of Gov. Aumentado, said she can attest how good a public servant Balite was.
“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,” said Rep. Aumentado.
Rep. Aumentado also thanked Balite for standing up for her husband.
“You did not hesitate to tandem with Aris. I salute you for all your goodness and sacrifices. Rest in Peace Vice Governor, acting Governor Victor,” Rep. Aumentado said.
With the death of Balite, Board Member (BM) Tita Baja is now the province’s acting governor while BM Benjie Arcama is the acting vice governor.