Cebuana Lhuillier proudly reveals the Top 10 finalists for the 2025 Happiest Pinoy—an inspiring roster of individuals whose stories illuminate the resilience, optimism, and boundless generosity of the Filipino spirit. Culled from thousands of entries nationwide, these finalists emerged through a rigorous external judging process, each one embodying the essence of joy in service and strength through adversity.
As they move forward to the next round of panel interviews, the finalists will share their defining life challenges, the impact of their advocacies, and their vision for a brighter future. One of them will ultimately be named the 2025 Happiest Pinoy.
Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of P.J. Lhuillier Inc., encapsulated the heart of the initiative:
“In a world that tests us constantly, the Happiest Pinoy reminds us that true strength is measured not by the absence of hardship, but by our capacity to lift others while we rise. These finalists show that joy and service travel hand in hand—each story a lesson that hope is contagious and resilience can be taught.”
Meet the 10 Inspiring Finalists
This year’s finalists represent powerful journeys defined by passion, courage, and unwavering commitment to community upliftment:
- Darwin Tadifa — Inspiradong Champion
A dedicated public school teacher and ALS implementer from Iloilo, Tadifa has spent 22 years educating out-of-school youth. Through DAGYAW ALS, he has supported thousands of learners in rebuilding their futures. - Zacarias Mansing Jr. — No Way Kapansanan
A literacy advocate working from a wheelchair, Mansing has empowered tens of thousands of students through his “Books for Kids Project,” proving that physical limitations cannot hinder one’s purpose. - Cresencia “Nanay Cresing” Ilao — Happy at 60
At 95, the master potter from Batangas continues to preserve traditional Filipino pottery. Her passion for teaching ensures that this centuries-old craft endures for the next generations. - Naprey Almario — Bibo sa Negosyo
An entrepreneur from Davao, Almario champions inclusive livelihood programs that open doors of opportunity for persons with disabilities. - Ronnel Ojas — Proud as Pride
A strong advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion, Ojas promotes mental wellness and self-acceptance through his heartfelt initiative, Project I Am Wonder. - Joshua Charles Saguban — Masayahing Gen Z
A young leader balancing academics with community service, Saguban spearheads feeding programs and offers volunteer teaching to underserved children. - Christian Apolinario — Creative Pinoy
An artist and filmmaker, Apolinario advances disability inclusion through his visionary projects, including para-dance artistry and inclusive storytelling. - Juan Carlos Soriano — Bagong Bayani, Hatid Sigla
A compassionate OFW seafarer, Soriano advocates for mental health awareness and disaster relief initiatives for communities in crisis. - Jason Roy Sibug — Katutubo TRIBO
A respected Indigenous leader, Sibug strengthens education and sustainable livelihood programs to empower tribal communities. - Glaidel Joy Balog — Happiest Ka-Cebuana
A Quezon-based radio DJ known for funding her own outreach activities, Balog uplifts marginalized families with unwavering dedication and a bright, infectious spirit.
A Celebration of Impact and Humanity
What sets these finalists apart is not just the depth of their personal journeys, but the measurable and lasting impact of their work. They will be evaluated on four key criteria: Resilience, Optimism and Genuine Happiness, Champion of Hope and Impact, and X-Factor—with live scoring ensuring transparency and integrity throughout the judging process. The panel interview will feature structured introductions, timed Q&A, and deliberations.
The Return of a Beloved Tradition
The 2025 edition marks the much-awaited return of the Happiest Pinoy competition, one of Cebuana Lhuillier’s flagship programs dedicated to honoring Filipinos who transform compassion into action. This year’s finalists stand as a testament to the many unsung heroes whose lives remind us that joy, when rooted in purpose, becomes a force stronger than hardship.
The much-anticipated announcement of the 2025 Happiest Pinoy will take place on December 2, 2025—a celebration of hope, humanity, and the unstoppable Filipino spirit.
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