On April 8, 2026, the Belize Coast Guard announced the tragic passing of one of its dedicated servicemembers, Petty Officer Third Class Gianne Seline Cayetano, in an official public statement that opened with the somber line: “You have been relieved of duty. Rest in peace.”
Cayetano first joined the Belize Coast Guard ranks back in 2013, and after her transfer, she went on to serve in a key role as Personal Assistant to the service’s Commandant. Over her 13 years of service, she built a reputation for unwavering commitment and professional conduct that earned her widespread respect across the force. In its statement, the Belize Coast Guard emphasized that Cayetano’s unexpected death has left a deep wound across the entire close-knit Coast Guard community, noting that her dedication, professional demeanor, and warm presence left an indelible mark on all who had the chance to work alongside her.
News of Cayetano’s passing was first shared publicly by her twin sister, Janine Cayetano, this past Monday. In her announcement, Janine asked for public understanding, requesting “love, patience, and strength, not only for our family but for everyone whose life was touched by Gianne.”
Beyond her service to the Belize Coast Guard, Cayetano built a respected profile across the country’s sports community as a talented athlete and dedicated supporter of local football. Her sudden loss has also triggered an outpouring of grief from her extended family. One relative spoke to the shock and pain of the entire family, saying, “Mein, my sister, my friend and most foremost aunt to my daughters. We are surely in shock and grief over this reality.”
Colleagues who worked with Cayetano on recent service activities also highlighted her active contributions. They remembered her as a core, instrumental part of the 2026 Belize Coast Guard Women’s Month celebrations, and counted her among the most energetic and committed supporters of the Coast Guard team during the 2026 Wonder Woman Competition. As tributes continue to flow in from across Belize, many who knew Cayetano remember her as a constant source of joy: a person who was always happy, laughing, smiling, cracking jokes, and bringing energy to group games.