Domingo Villanueva, 55

MANILA, Philippines — Two-time Olympian and former Southeast Asian Games cycling gold medalist Domingo Villanueva passed away yesterday. He was 55.

Villanueva passed away at 2 a.m. due to heart attack in his hometown in Samar, according to his daughter, Isack.

Cycling enthusiasts will remember Villanueva for serving the country internationally as a road racer then as coach.

Villanueva rode for the Philippines in the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, and then again in 1992 in Barcelona, along with fellow two-time Olympian Norberto Oconer.

Villanueva won golds in the individual 140 km road race in the 1993 SEA Games in Singapore and before that in team trial event of the 1991 Manila SEA Games.

Villanueva was a veteran of the Marlboro Tour. He later served as coach of the national road cycling team.

“I am saddened to hear about the loss of my former teammate, coach and ninong,” former national rider Wilson Blas posted on the Facebook page of the “Philippine Cycling History” group.

“He is a very strong and true cyclist who has contributed to the National Team. You will forever be missed,” he added.