Galing Pook Foundation mourns the passing of Mr. Aniceto M. Sobrepeña, Galing Pook Trustee and Compliance Officer. Mr. Sobrepeña died on January 11, 2026. He was 72.

Chito, as he is fondly called, had served in the National Selection Committee of the very first Galing Pook Awards -– then the Gantimpalang Pang-lingkod Pook -– from 1993 to 1994. He also served in the NSC from 1994 to 1995, 2001 to 2002, and in 2021.

Mr. Sobrepeña was elected to the Galing Pook Foundation Board of Trustees in May 2021, and was reelected for a second term in April 2024. In May 2025, he was elected as the Foundation’s Compliance Officer.

As Board Member, Mr. Sobrepeña was instrumental in providing policy improvements to the Galing Pook Awards. His long-term government service spanning 22 years in the Philippine Government’s Executive Branch, and wide variety of involvement in business, corporate foundations, and his other affiliations, provided the wealth of experience and wisdom that he continuously shared with the Galing Pook Board.

His demise is truly a big loss to the Foundation and its members, who remember Chito as a gentle and caring person who was always approachable, ready to help, one who truly lived for others, and a true Filipino servant leader. He will continue to be an inspiration to the countless people whose lives he has touched.