Amici Philippines founder Fr. Gianluigi Colombo passes away

Father Gianluigi Colombo, the Salesian Italian priest who founded the Italian restaurant Amici di Don Bosco has passed away. 

Amici Philippines announced via its social media accounts on Monday that Colombo died on December 21 in Italy. 

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Fr. Gianluigi Colombo, the founder of Amici di Don Bosco. He passed away yesterday, December 21, in Italy,” the post read.

According to the post, the famed Italian restaurant was born from the vision of Colombo who “believed deeply in the power of friendship, faith, and gathering around the table.” 

“He taught us that food is more than nourishment; it is a way to welcome, to accompany, and to build community—especially for the young and the forgotten,” they said. 

Living out the spirit of St. John Bosco, Colombo was known for his humility and joy, who showed others that "kindness, presence, and service can quietly change lives." 

As the Amici community grieves his loss, members also celebrate the enduring legacy he leaves behind. 

“We carry his legacy forward in every meal shared, every guest welcomed as a friend, and every act of generosity done in love. Thank you, Fr. Colombo, for planting the heart and soul of Amici. Your spirit lives on—in friendship,” they wrote.

Fr. Colombo was responsible for looking after the Don Bosco Printing Press when he was given permission by the Don Bosco management to put up a canteen in Makati in 2001 for their employees.

The canteen, which became known as Amici di Don Bosco or Amici, initially served Italian coffee and gelato to customers and later introduced wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. 

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA Integrated News