Former Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) official Rosalina Bistoyong died on Jan. 10 due to rheumatic heart disease. She was 68.
Her death was confirmed by her niece, Corylou, to the Varsitarian.
DAR officials and employees, led by Acting Agrarian Reform Secretary Bernie Cruz, offered prayers and condolences to the Bistoyong family on Jan. 11.
Bistoyong had served as DAR undersecretary under the Support Services Office since 2010.
She obtained her bachelor’s degree in communication from the University in 1974. She then earned her master’s degree in development communication at Cornell University in the United States in 1977.
Bistoyong served in the National Commission on Indigenous People and was a member of the Philippine Coconut Authority board of directors from 2020 to 2021.
Corylou described her aunt as a “committed” and “meticulous” individual who left no task or activity unfinished.
“She has also been considered as one of the leaders who portrayed true humility and ethical public service,” Corylou said.
Bistoyong’s remains were buried in Suyo, Ilocos Sur on Jan. 19. Joanne Christine P. Ramos