Literacy and disability inclusion advocate Zacarias Mansing, Jr. has been named Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2025 Happiest Pinoy, emerging as the top honoree from more than 500,000 entries submitted nationwide. His inspiring journey from personal tragedy to national impact stood out in one of the competition’s most diverse and competitive editions to date.
The awarding ceremony, held last 02 December 2025 at Dusit Thani Manila, brought together this year’s ten national category winners, each representing significant sectors of society — including youth and senior citizens, entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities, OFWs, members of the workforce, the LGBTQ+ community, creatives, indigenous peoples, and Cebuana Lhuillier clients. From this distinguished group, Mansing advanced as a finalist and ultimately secured the top recognition.
A multi-sector panel of judges — composed of public servants, media figures, social innovators, athletes, and former Happiest Pinoy titleholders — evaluated finalists based on four major criteria: Resilience, Optimism and Genuine Happiness, Champion of Hope and Impact, and the unique X-Factor that captures authenticity and inspiration. Mansing’s life story and advocacy resonated strongly in all areas, cementing his place as the program’s latest ambassador of hope and positivity.
Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier highlighted the significance of Mansing’s achievement, noting that his journey embodies the full spirit of the Happiest Pinoy campaign. Lhuillier described Mansing’s life as a powerful example of “strength rooted not in the absence of hardship but in the courage to lift others while rising above one’s own challenges,” adding that his example mirrors the campaign’s mission of celebrating joy that empowers and transforms communities.
Mansing’s story is one of profound resilience. After an accident abroad in 2012 left him paralyzed, he returned to the Philippines determined to rebuild his life with purpose. Guided by what he calls his DRISO values — Determination, Resilience, Inspiration, Service, and Optimism — he launched the Books for Kids Project in 2017. Despite being wheelchair-bound, he has visited more than 300 remote public schools, reaching over 50,000 students across Negros Oriental. His advocacy promotes literacy, fosters disability inclusion, and provides hope to underserved communities, making him one of the most impactful grassroots changemakers in the region.
For Mansing, happiness is deeply connected to faith and service. He has shared that being the Happiest Pinoy means living with a heart that trusts in God despite trials, and maintaining “hands always ready to reach out to those in need.” His message continues to resonate with individuals and communities inspired by his example of finding purpose beyond pain.