A Day of Hope, Heroism, and the Unbreakable Filipino Spirit
MAKATI CITY — Cebuana Lhuillier once again proved that the Filipino spirit shines brightest in the face of adversity as it celebrated the grand culmination of The Search for the Happiest Pinoy 2025 last December 2 at Dusit Thani Manila. With a vibrant Pinoy fiesta theme, the event gathered leaders, dignitaries, media, and inspiring Filipinos for a night filled with color, music, and remarkable stories of resilience.
At the center of this unforgettable celebration stood Zacarias Mansing, the newly crowned Happiest Pinoy 2025 Grand Winner—a man whose life is a testament to courage, purpose, and the power of choosing joy despite hardship.
Turning Pain Into Purpose: The Story of a True Happiest Pinoy
After a spinal cord injury left him confined to a wheelchair, many expected Zacarias’ life to dim. Instead, he transformed his struggle into strength by founding the Books for Kids Project, a personal mission that has now reached 50,000+ students across 300 public schools nationwide.
Supported only by seven volunteers and fueled by the income of his small business and personal pension, Zacarias travels tirelessly to far-flung communities to deliver books and inspire young learners.
He has become a mentor, a leader, and a beacon of hope—proof that happiness grows when we choose to serve others.
“Today, we honor his courage, heart, and unstoppable spirit,” Cebuana Lhuillier declared as Zacarias received his award to a standing ovation.
A Celebration of Ten Extraordinary Finalists
This year’s finalists—each representing a unique story of perseverance and optimism—were also honored during the ceremony:
• Happy at 60 – Cresencia Llao
• No Way Kapansanan – Zacarias Mansing
• Katutubo (Tribo) – Jason Ray Sibug
• Inspiradong Champion – Darwin Tadifa
• Bibo sa Negosyo – Naprey Almario
• Happiest Ka-Cebuana – Glaidel Balog
• Creative Pinoy – Christian Apolinario
• Bagong Bayani, Hatid Sigla – Juan Carlos Soriano
• Proud as Pride – Ronnel Ojas
• Masayahing Gen Z – Joshua Charles Saguban
Their stories reminded guests that resilience, hope, and kindness remain deeply embedded in the Filipino identity.
Messages of Hope from Cebuana Lhuillier Leadership
In his keynote address, Ambassador Philippe Jones Lhuillier, Chairman and Founder of Cebuana Lhuillier, highlighted the profound meaning behind the advocacy:
“The Filipino spirit shines brightest in the face of challenges. Happiness is not about perfect circumstances—it is about courage. May we carry that spirit as we build a future rooted in compassion, dignity, and shared purpose.”
Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier reaffirmed the company’s mission:
“We uplift lives not only through our services, but through advocacies like the Happiest Pinoy—advocacies that honor character, empower growth, and champion the limitless potential of every Filipino.”
Executive Director of Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Jonathan Batangan added:
“Here’s to resilience, to purpose, and to the unbreakable spirit that keeps us united as one Filipino family.”
First Vice President and Group Head for Marketing Mike Sena closed with an inspiring reminder:
“Happiness grows when we share it. May these stories inspire us to spread more hope, kindness, and joy in our homes and communities.”
Fiesta, Family, and Filipino Pride
The festive gathering—complete with traditional Filipino food, live performances, and vibrant décor—was attended by esteemed guests including Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Representative Geraldine Roman, media partners, Cebuana Lhuillier executives, and the ever-supportive Lhuillier family:
Ambassador Philippe Jones Lhuillier, Senorita Edna Lhuillier, Jean Henri Lhuillier, Philippe Andre Lhuillier, Camille Lhuillier, Angie Lhuillier, and Jackie Jess.
The night honored not only the finalists but also the countless Filipinos whose everyday acts of courage and gratitude illuminate our nation.
A Legacy of Empowerment
For over a decade, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Search for the Happiest Pinoy has become one of the country’s most meaningful platforms for celebrating resilience, positivity, and purpose. It is a powerful extension of the brand’s commitment to uplifting Filipino lives—one inspiring story at a time.
As the event closed, one message rang clear:
In a world of challenges, Filipinos continue to rise, to smile, and to serve—because true happiness is shared.
Congratulations, Zacarias Mansing—Happiest Pinoy 2025!
Mabuhay ang masayahing puso ng bawat Pilipino.
#HappiestPinoy2025
#CebuanaLhuillier
#TheSearchForTheHappiestPinoy
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