Francisco Sapon Alegre Sr.

Francisco Sapon Alegre was a man of wisdom, dedication, and deep compassion whose life left a lasting mark on his family, community, and all those fortunate enough to know him.

Born with a keen mind and a steadfast work ethic, Francisco pursued higher education at one of the country's most prestigious universities. He completed his Degree in Agriculture at the University of the Philippines, Los Baños (UPLB), where he excelled as a student and developed the strong foundation that would guide his career and life's work.

After graduation, Francisco began his career at the Land Registration Commission in Manila. When he started his own family, he was assigned to the provinces, first at the Register of Deeds in Ifugao, and later transferred to the Register of Deeds in Nueva Vizcaya, where he rose to the position of Deputy Register of Deeds. In these roles, he carried significant responsibility over property and land records, a position that often exposed him to the temptations of corruption that plagued the system. While others enriched themselves, Francisco chose a different path. Guided by his principles of honesty and integrity, he rejected those opportunities for personal gain and instead sought a better and more dignified life for his family.

In April 1982, he made a courageous decision to leave the Philippines and pursue opportunities in the United States. His new life was not easy. He began working in a flower nursery, enduring long hours of physical labor as he adjusted to the challenges of a foreign land. But with resilience and determination, he persevered. His efforts eventually led him to a long-term position at Cabrillo College in Aptos, California, where he became a respected member of the academic community, admired for his reliability, dedication, and quiet strength.

Francisco was more than his career. He was a rancher and farmer at heart, a man who loved the land and understood the dignity of labor. He was also known for his generosity. Many people back home were blessed by his kindness and guidance, often receiving not only help but also encouragement and hope from him. His wisdom ran deep, his reflections carried weight, and his words left lasting lessons. He was a man of many interests. Francisco loved reading books, and he immersed himself in subjects like geography and world history, always eager to expand his knowledge. He had a sharp mind for discussion and, like many who enjoy the life of the intellect, he loved to debate ideas. His thoughtful but firm views reflected his convictions, including his political belief as a Republican, which he held with both confidence and respect for differing opinions.

At the center of his life was his family. Francisco was first married to Jovita Alegre, a devoted public-school teacher whose values of education and service mirrored his own. Together, they built a home grounded in love, respect, and learning. They were blessed with six children, three boys and three girls, each of whom Francisco nurtured with care, discipline, and unwavering support. As a loving father, he always put his children's future first, ensuring that they had opportunities to succeed while instilling in them the values of hard work, humility, and compassion.

In the year 2000, after the passing of his beloved wife Jovita, Francisco found companionship once more. Two years later, he married Isabel Jacinto, who became his partner and support in his later years. Their marriage brought comfort and stability, showing his ability to embrace life with resilience and hope even after loss.

Beyond his work and family, Francisco found fulfillment in farming, joy in storytelling and sharing wisdom, and peace in the simple life close to nature. To those around him, he was not only a provider and public servant but also a teacher, mentor, and friend.

Francisco is survived by his wife of 23 years, Isabel Jacinto, his children, Francisco Jr. (Gemma) Acosta Alegre, Raul (Ruth) Acosta Alegre, Aileen (Aaron) Alegre White, Winston (Juvy) Acosta Alegre, Loida Acosta Alegre, and Ira (Raul) Acosta Diaz, and his siblings, Ernesto (Farcoleta) Sapon Alegre, Soledad (Eusebio) Alegre Basilio, Conrado (Leonisa) Sapon Alegre, Simplicio (Armenia) Sapon Alegre, Pacita (Artemio) Alegre Javier, Perlas (Lando) Alegre Yalung, Gloria (Virgilio) Alegre Fabian, and Nena (Jesus) Alegre Valdez.

He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren, Albert Francis, Maria Em, Francis Aerol, Francis James, Michelle Angela, Michelle Maria, Frank Churchill, Frances Gem, Julienne Venus, April Athena, Samuel Francis, Charles Jerwin, Sean Francis, Shiloh Mae, and 5 great-grandchildren, Eullan Franzel, Simple King, Katlin Quinn, Ambrose Sky, and Adierose Kylo. He was predeceased by his parents Simplicio Alegre and Saturnina Sapon, and his first wife of 36 years, Jovita Acosta Alegre.

Francisco Sapon Alegre's life was one of courage, sacrifice, and love. He embodied intelligence, humility, and generosity, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire his children, grandchildren, and community. His story is a reminder that true success is not measured by wealth or titles, but by the integrity of one's choices and the love and lives touched along the way.

"Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts."