Mediaman Marlon Bellita passes away

CEBU, Philippines - Two weeks after suffering a massive stroke due to ruptured aneurysm, Banat News columnist, radio broadcaster and comedian Marlon Bellita passed away last night.

Bellita, news reporter and host of “Rated R” program aired daily over dyAB, went comatose when he was admitted to Chong Hua Hospital in the evening of October 31.

He was 42.

His wife, Hazel, said Bellita died around 6 p.m. after his heartbeat fluctuated and dove to zero. Bellita left behind his wife and three children ages 15, 10 and six.

Shortly after words of his death came out, his Facebook account was filled with condolences from friends and fans.

In a statement, the Cebu Federation of Beat Journalists said it “is in deep sorrow for the untimely demise” of a colleague.

Talisay City Councilor Romeo Villarante said the City Council will pass a resolution recognizing Bellita who, as a reporter, used to cover the city.

Bellita was president emeritus of Media in Cebu South (MICS), an alliance of reporters whose assignment includes Talisay City and the rest of the first district.

“The SP will pass a resolution in recognition of Marlon Bellita’s contribution to the City of Talisay as member of the media and condoling his family,” said Villarante in a text message.

Bellita’s remains will be brought to his home in barangay San Isidro, Talisay City.

Interment will be announced later. -/LPM (FREEMAN)