DEPUTY Speaker and Las Piñas City Representative Camille Villar on Saturday paid tribute to the late Governor Carlos Padilla of Nueva Vizcaya.

Padilla succumbed to a heart attack at the age of 78, leaving behind his wife Ruth and children Carlos “Jojo” II, Ruthie Maye, and Carlo Paolo.

“We deeply mourn the passing of a dedicated and inspiring leader in Gov. Padilla, who demonstrated [an] unwavering commitment to (promoting) the welfare of his countrymen,” Villar said.

As one of the leaders of the Nacionalista Party (NP), the lone district representative said her family also joins the party officials and members in remembering Gov. Padilla.

“We continue to draw inspiration from his important contributions in public service – isinulong niya ang makabuluhang proyekto bilang kinatawan ng lone district ng Nueva Vizcaya at gobernador ng lalawigan sa loob ng maraming taon,” added Villar.

Padilla, who won reelection as governor in 2016, was serving his third term.

He started his political career as the first mayor of the old Dupax town before it was split into three municipalities.

He also served as the first mayor of Dupax del Norte when the town was split into Dupax del Norte, Dupax del Sur, and Alfonso Castañeda.

He served as the representative of the lone district of Nueva Vizcaya for 29 years, where he was deputy speaker and minority leader.

Citizens Battle Against Corruption (CIBAC) Party-list Rep. Eduardo “Bro. Eddie” C. Villanueva on Saturday also paid tribute to his “dear friend.”

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of a dear friend and a compatriot in the fight against injustices and poverty in the country – Gov. Caloy Padilla – whom I know to be one of those who genuinely love this country and the Filipino people. He’s a real man of the masses, statesman and champion of the welfare of the people, particularly Novo Vizcayanos. Caloy will be forever missed and remembered,” Villanueva said.

Villanueva and Padilla were among the leading figures during the so-called “1st Quarter Storm” – a period of demonstrations, protests, and marches during the early 1970s.

He and Padilla also both served as faculty members at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), formerly the Philippine College of Commerce.

“Though it may take long to be over the sting of pain and grief due to his demise, may we all find comfort and courage in the truth that Caloy is now in far more better state and place – no other than in the blissful and loving presence of our God Almighty,” Villanueva ended.