DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Advocacy

  • PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2026 Strengthens its Commitment to the Growth of Local Publishing

    PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2026 Strengthens its Commitment to the Growth of Local Publishing

    During the 2026 Philippine Book Festival Media Launch that was held on February 26, 2026, the National Book Development Board (NBDB)has announced the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026 – the country’s only book festival dedicated exclusively to Filipino-authored and published works.

    The NBDB is all set for the 4th Philippine Book Festival (PBF)— the country’s only marketplace dedicated exclusively to all-Filipino books and published works, and a shared third place for publishers, writers, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders.

    The festival runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, 5th Floor, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

    CHARISSE AQUINO-TUGADE is the Executive Director of the National Book Development Board (NBDB), a cultural worker, the primary mover behind CulturAid, the founder of The Manila Collectible Co., and the founding Director of Museo ng Muntinlupa.
    With interdisciplinary experience spanning the public and private sectors, she creates an environment that empowers and amplifies voices, connecting communities and organizations that might otherwise not cross paths. As the NBDB Executive Director, she envisioned and spearheaded The Book Nook, storytelling and reading communities that provide Pinoy books for kids and kids-at-heart from Ifugao to Tawi-Tawi, as well as the Philippine Book Festival, the country’s premier all-Filipino book fair.

    “With the continued interest we saw in the last few years, we are encouraged by the growing appreciation for Filipino stories and content,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

    “The strong public response affirms that there is a meaningful demand for books that reflect our own culture, languages, and lived experiences.”

    Building on that momentum, the NBDB sees PBF 2026 as an opportunity not only to expand visitor turnout and exhibitor participation but also to strengthen access to locally produced books and learning materials. In a milestone for the festival, Day 1 (March 12) will be open to the general public for the first time, welcoming all readers alongside the Department of Education (DepEd) and its book
    evaluators from across the country.

    Four Realms, One Rainforest

    PBF 2026 reimagines its four signature realms within a rainforest-inspired setting. Aral Aklat highlights books as tools for learning and discovery, featuring textbooks and teaching guides. Booktopia invites visitors to explore the breadth of Filipino fiction and nonfiction. Kid Lit nurtures early readers through interactive, child-friendly experiences. Komiks celebrates the visual richness of Filipino comics and graphic storytelling.

    This year’s lineup brings together the full spectrum of Philippine literary life. National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, and prominent historian Ambeth Ocampo will be on hand for book signings alongside trade-book superstars Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Medina. GMA Network, together with PaperKat Books, will also launch “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre” at PBF 2026.

    Beyond the realms, the festival offers a range of spaces for connection: Lugar Lagdaan for book signings and reader-author meetups; Bahay Ilustrador for a look into the world of visual storytellers; Gubat ng Karunungan for workshops, talks, and masterclasses; the Fiesta Stage for major programming and performances; and Umpukan for informal community conversations.

    The NBDB, in cooperation with the National Library of the Philippines, will also feature facsimiles of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, Doctrina Christiana, and Fr. Manuel Blanco’s Flora de Filipinas—rare works
    that anchor the festival in the Philippines’ deep literary heritage.

    A highlight of the four-day run is the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA), to be held on March 14, 2026 at the Fiesta Stage. The NBA acknowledges the works of authors, illustrators, editors, translators, and publishers whose books have helped shape the country’s literary landscape.

    Into the Gubat ng Karunungan

    This year’s festival takes its theme from the richness underfoot and overhead: Gubat ng Karunungan,or Rainforest of Knowledge. The key visual, crafted by returning artist and designer Joffrey “Pepot”
    Atienza, follows two characters, Yaz and Ye-ey, as they journey through a teeming rainforest, taking in its flora, fauna, and falls.

    Drawing on his daily life at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Lucban, Quezon, Atienza wove recycled paper into the artwork as a deliberate gesture: the same trees that give us paper carry the stories we
    tell. “Our stories, our books, and our karunungan all start here—in the biodiversity we need to protect,” he said.

    A Festival Dedicated to Philippine Literature

    “The Philippine Book Festival is positioned not only as a literary event but also as a third place that connects key players in the publishing and education sectors,” Aquino-Tugade said. “By convening publishers, institutional buyers, educators, and readers in a single venue, the festival supports broader efforts to improve access to quality Philippine books and sustain the local publishing industry.”

    “Let’s make the Philippines not just a nation of readers, but a global powerhouse of authors and creators,” Aquino-Tugade concluded.

    About the National Book Development Board

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the Philippines’ book authority mandated to develop and strengthen the local book publishing industry. It works to expand access to quality Philippine
    books, promote a culture of reading, and support the growth of local publishing, while ensuring that Filipino authorship and literary production remain visible, competitive, and sustainable in both
    national and international contexts.

    Follow @nbdbphilippines (Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok) or visit books.gov.ph to learn more.

    REFERENCE:

    NBDB Communications

    #PhilippineBookFestival #PBF2026 #MagbasaTayo #AklatParaSaLahat #NBDB

  • Firmness, Fairness, and Full Preparedness: Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates

    Firmness, Fairness, and Full Preparedness: Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates

    The Chairman of COMELEC recently issued an statement of firmness, fairness, and full preparedness to Voters and Candidates.

    In a comprehensive public statement, George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), highlighted the Commission’s readiness, integrity safeguards, and commitment to inclusive and credible elections.

    Swift but Careful Ballot Printing

    On the printing of ballots for the March 14 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, Chairman Garcia emphasized operational preparedness. He explained that ballot printing could begin immediately and be completed within days. However, speed would never compromise quality.

    Every ballot, he assured, will undergo strict verification, checked thoroughly for clarity, cleanliness, smudges, misprints, or defects that would require reprinting. The Commission is prepared to complete the entire process within five working days, demonstrating both efficiency and meticulous attention to detail. His message was clear: preparedness must be matched by precision.

    Zero Tolerance for Premature Campaigning

    Chairman Garcia issued a strong reminder to candidates to strictly observe election guidelines, especially since the Antipolo election will be conducted manually. Premature campaigning, vote-buying, and the misuse of public funds will not be tolerated.

    He warned that COMELEC will closely monitor violations, particularly the distribution of money or goods during prohibited periods. The Commission will not hesitate to disqualify candidates who break the rules, a stance he noted has already been proven in past enforcement actions.

    This firm posture reinforces COMELEC’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

    Early Voting and Inclusive Participation On Election Day, March 14, 2026, COMELEC will reimplement its successful Early Voting Hours from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM. These hours are exclusively reserved for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant voters. The initiative reflects the Commission’s continuing effort to make elections more accessible and humane.

    Chairman Garcia also confirmed coordination with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to allow qualified detainees who are registered voters in Antipolo’s 2nd District to cast their votes. He stressed that no eligible Filipino should be left behind when it comes to the right to vote.

    Bangsamoro Registration and Modernization Push

    Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC resumed voter registration from February 9 to March 30, 2026. Through the Register Anywhere Program (RAP), Bangsamoro residents from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area may register in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns without returning to their provinces.

    Chairman Garcia strongly advocated for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election to be automated, explaining that conducting a fully manual election in the region would pose serious logistical and operational challenges.

    Transparency and Respect in Campaigning In line with its transparency commitment, COMELEC released online the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven Antipolo candidates, allowing voters to be properly informed about those seeking office.

    Chairman Garcia also appealed for respectful campaigning, avoiding excessive noise, traffic disruption, and community disturbance. He reminded candidates that the Anti-Discrimination Resolution remains in effect. Personal attacks, discriminatory remarks, and below-the-belt tactics can lead to disqualification, as demonstrated in previous cases.

    A Clear Standard for Elections

    Through his message, Chairman Garcia projected a leadership style defined by preparedness, fairness, inclusivity, and strict enforcement of the law. His words serve not only as guidance to candidates but as reassurance to voters: elections will be conducted with order, transparency, and accountability.

    For COMELEC under his leadership, democracy is not merely administered, it is actively safeguarded.

    Reference:

    Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

    President and Editor-in-Chief

    TAG Media Group

  • Rising Tigers Magazine to Host Wellness Within: A Forum on Health Balance and Longevity

    Rising Tigers Magazine to Host Wellness Within: A Forum on Health Balance and Longevity

    Rising Tigers Magazine has announced to host a forum with theme “Wellness Within: A Forum on Health Balance and Longevity”.

    Makati City, Philippines, February 18, 2026 — Rising Tigers Magazine, led by President and Editor-in-Chief Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, will bring together leaders from government, business, and key sectors for the upcoming health and wellness forum on February 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Berjaya Makati Hotel. The forum highlights the growing importance of health security as a foundation of national resilience and inclusive economic growth.

    Organized in strategic partnership with various embassies in the Philippines, the forum aims to share global best practices and promote a holistic approach to health, wellness, and longevity.

    The forum will feature distinguished speakers H.E. Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, CIAC PCEO Joseph Alcazar, John Calub, Dr. Carl Balita, Master Hanz Cua, and Cory Quirino, who will share insights on health systems, wellness innovation, and sustainable approaches to public health. The panel sessions will be moderated by Philippine Information Agency – National Capital Region Director Emver Cortez, who will help guide meaningful discussions among policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders.

    “This forum is a platform for alignment, where leadership, policy, and innovation meet for the greater good,” said Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas.
    Through keynote addresses and panel discussions, the forum positions healthcare not only as a social responsibility but as a strategic investment in the nation’s future, supporting inclusive growth, stability, and public welfare.

    Rising Tigers Magazine invites organizations and stakeholders to join this important national dialogue and explore partnership opportunities aligned with shared goals.

    For inquiries, please contact +63 977 897 8877 or email president@rising-tigers.asia.

    Together, let us help build a stronger nation through accessible products and services for all

    #RisingTigers #NationBuilders

    Reference:

    Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

    President and Editor-in-Chief

    Rising Tigers Magazine

  • PEPA Celebrates 75 Years of Developing Filipino Textbooks

    PEPA Celebrates 75 Years of Developing Filipino Textbooks

    The Philippine Educational Publishers Association (PEPA) recognized its achievements and honored its partners during its 75th anniversary held last December 5, 2025 at the Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas.

    Highlights of the event entitled HONORING THE PAST, CELEBRATING THE PRESENT AND PUBLISHING IN THE FUTURE, were presentation of plaques to HONORABLE SENATOR SHERWIN GATCHALIAN, SENATOR RODANTE MARCOLETA, HONORABLE CONGRESSMEN ANTONIO CERILLES and RUFUS RODRIGUEZ, and ATTY RODELIO T. DASCIL who were instrumental in the legislation of the Book Industry Development Act (RA 8047). Plaques were likewise presented to government and private agencies like the DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, the NATIONAL BOOK DEVELOPMENT BOARD, the PRIVATE EDUCATION ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE and the CATHOLIC EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES.

    Past PEPA presidents Dr. Ernesto Sibal, Jesus Ernesto Sibal, Jose Agaton Sibal, Atty. Dominador Buhain, Jose Maria “Toots” Policarpio and current president Jose Paolo Sibal were likewise given awards for their service and dedication to the Association.

    SENATOR SHERWIN GATCHALIAN, was recognized for his diligence in pushing for educational reforms as the then Chairman of the Senate Education Committee in the 19th Congress. In his acceptance speech, Senator Gatchalian reiterated his position that the public schools be permitted to select the textbooks best suited for their students and their conditions, citing the practice of private schools whose textbooks are chosen by the subject coordinators and teachers.

    Speaking for PEPA, President Emeritus Dominador Buhain stated that the good senator’s proposed solution for providing each public school student with a set of textbooks through liberalized procurement is being adopted by advanced countries with high ratings in international assessments like China, Japan, Finland and Singapore, whose students score high in international assessments like PISA. Senator Gatchalian lamented the delays in textbook allocation for public schools which are caused by a centralized procurement process.

    Senator Gatchalian,, a product of the private school system , even sees no opposition on the adoption of procurement program in the private schools due to their perceived accessibility and presumptive quality of textbooks to be adopted (brought out by competitive market forces where quality prevails) within a shorter time frame.

    He believes that with the enhanced DEPED budget, his earlier estimated P28 billion peso allocation mentioned in 2024 would be sufficient to provide one textbook per subject per student. Possessing a textbook instead of having none due to bureaucratic delay could serve as a better proposition to improve our standing in the PISA.

    Unfortunately, the procurement for textbooks for SY 2025-2026 in some grade levels has been delayed by new procurement guidelines under RA 12009.

    Senator Sherwin Gatchalian receives a Plaque of Recognition during the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Philippine Educational Publishers Association (PEPA). Joining him (from left) are Danda Crimelda Buhain and Atty. Dominador Buhain of Rex Education; Jose Paolo Sibal of Phoenix Publishing House; and John Emyl Eugenio of C&E Publishing Inc.

    As PEPA looks forward to another seven decades of service to the Filipino learner, it is resolved to meet the rigorous demands of knowledge production for the diverse learning needs of Philippine schools.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Mr. Richard Mamuyac

  • Coca-Cola illuminates sites to spread bright Christmas magic nationwide

    Coca-Cola illuminates sites to spread bright Christmas magic nationwide

    Coca-Cola illuminates sites to spread bright Christmas magic nationwide this year.

    Christmas is a cherished tradition in the Philippines that embodies joy, hope, and togetherness. It’s a time when families reunite, communities come alive with parol and carols, and even the simplest gatherings become moments of magic.

    Staying true to the spirit of spreading happiness all year round, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)—the bottling partner and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the country—brings to life its highly anticipated annual Christmas light-up across its sites.

    This year, over 30 CCEAP sites in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao shines bright with the theme “Bituin ng Pag-asa: Guiding Light for a Brighter Future.” Each lighted site serves as a beacon of festive cheer and Filipino spirit, celebrating the enduring hope that binds communities and uplifts spirits.

    This long-standing tradition honors the total beverage company’s nearly 9,000-strong workforce, whose dedication ensures that Coca-Cola products reach homes and its customers—keeping communities refreshed every single day.

    The annual Christmas light-up has turned Coca-Cola’s sites into local attractions nationwide, drawing visitors and hosting shared moments among friends and families. Among the sites are Naga, Santa Rosa, Calasiao, Iloilo, Misamis Oriental, and Davao. In Santa Rosa, the light-up complements its iconic landmark of giant Coca-Cola cans, making it a must-see destination during the holidays.

    Associates at Coca-Cola’s Calasiao Plant smile as they transform the site into a festive spectacle. This is part of CCEAP’s yearly tradition of coming together to light up their different sites to spread Christmas cheer.

    Festive lights illuminate the Coca-Cola Tarlac Distribution Center, celebrating the joy and hope that its associates bring communities year-round.

    Each light-up installation was conceptualized by CCEAP associates, and uses ornaments handcrafted using recycled and upcycled materials. These displays reflect what makes a Filipino Christmas truly special: making celebrations meaningful by finding joy in the simple act of coming together. Adding to the festive spirit, the iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck continues its journey across the country, spreading the magic of Christmas wherever it goes.

    Coca-Cola’s Ilocos Plant shines bright as it’s decked with Christmas decorations conceptualized and handcrafted by Coca-Cola associates.

    In celebrating Christmas, CCEAP also honors the passion and perseverance that carried communities through challenging times, including the numerous natural disasters that the country has faced this year. CCEAP stands alongside the communities it serves in times of need by mobilizing relief efforts, ensuring the safety of its people, and delivering safe drinking water and essential supplies to those affected.

    “In every challenge Filipinos faced this year, there was always a reason to hold on to hope, and we are deeply grateful for the dedication and support of our people and the communities we serve,” said Gareth McGeown, President and CEO of CCEAP. “As we continue the Coca-Cola tradition of lighting up our sites, we aim to spark joy and serve as a beacon of hope not just for the holidays, but as we look ahead to a brighter, more promising tomorrow. Because even in the most difficult times, hope shines brightest when people come together,” added McGeown.

    Having been woven into the fabric of Filipino culture for over 113 years, CCEAP has been an integral part of Filipino festivities—from beloved beverages enjoyed during everyday occasions to delivering refreshment, sparking shared moments, and bringing an extra light to life during the holidays.

    CCEAP is locally rooted and deeply connected to the communities it serves, with products proudly made by Filipinos, for Filipinos. With a vast footprint spanning 18 manufacturing sites, and nearly 70 distribution and sales offices, CCEAP remains committed to uplifting communities nationwide all year round.

    About Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)

    Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)—the bottling partner and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the Philippines — operates across 18 manufacturing facilities and almost 70 distribution centers and sales offices nationwide, offering 20 brands in its beverage portfolio and employing around 9,000 Filipinos. Formerly Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI), CCEAP is jointly owned by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV) following the completed acquisition on 23 February 2024. CCEAP remains committed to its vision of refreshing Filipinos and making a difference across the Philippines through its great people, great beverages, great execution, and great partners, all while keeping sustainability at the heart of its operations.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Ms. Ericka Louise

    Media and Influencer Relations Officer

    ARDENT COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

  • Leading insurer partners with LRT-1 to provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters

    Leading insurer partners with LRT-1 to provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters

    Leading insurer partners with LRT-1 to provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters throughout December 2025. Malayan Insurance Co., Inc. (MICO), one of the country’s leading non-life insurance providers, has partnered with LRT-1 to power a month-long holiday campaign.

    This initiative offers complimentary Personal Accident (PA) insurance coverage to LRT-1 commuters throughout the entire month of December. The initiative, dubbed “The Gift of Protection,” aims to provide peace of mind to thousands of Filipino commuters during the busiest travel season of the year, when millions rush through Metro Manila’s railways for holiday shopping, year-end gatherings, and trips to provincial bus terminals for the Christmas break.

    “December is the most hectic time for Filipino commuters—carrying gifts, rushing to catch buses home, navigating crowded stations,” said Eden Tesoro, Chief Operating Officer of Malayan Insurance. “We wanted to cut through the holiday chaos with a meaningful gesture that reminds Filipinos that protection isn’t an expense—it’s a gift, and one we’re honored to give this Christmas season.”

    The campaign features a full station takeover at LRT-1’s Gil Puyat Station, a key transit point for commuters heading to Makati’s business districts and nearby provincial bus terminals. A fully-wrapped LRT-1 train will also traverse the line throughout December, spreading the message of safety and protection across the metro. Commuters can avail of the complimentary PA insurance coverage by simply scanning QR codes displayed throughout Gil Puyat Station and on the branded train.

    The seamless digital process requires only basic information—name and mobile number—and issues a digital policy certificate instantly. “This partnership with LRT-1 allows us to meet Filipinos where they are, literally,” Tesoro added. “We want to bring protection to the forefront during a time they need it most; that’s what future-proofing protection means to us.” The campaign reflects Malayan Insurance’s broader commitment to making insurance more accessible and relevant to everyday Filipinos, shifting the perception of insurance from a burdensome expense to a caring investment in one’s safety and future.

    The “Gift of Protection” campaign runs through the whole of December 2025, at LRT-1 Gil Puyat Station and aboard one roaming fully-wrapped train car.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Malayan PR

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

  • Estancia de Lorenzo Kicks Off Christmas Season with Dazzling Village Lighting

    Estancia de Lorenzo Kicks Off Christmas Season with Dazzling Village Lighting

    Why Estancia de Lorenzo kicks off the Christmas Season with Dazzling Village Lighting?

    Estancia de Lorenzo celebrated the start of the holiday season with a successful Christmas Village Lighting event, filled with festive activities and community spirit.

    The day featured a vibrant “Samu’t Sari Bazaar” with non-food vendors, alongside the opening of food concessionaires and classic Filipino games. The Brass and Percussion Symphonic Band provided lively entertainment throughout the afternoon.

    Ms. Leah Durante, Sales, Marketing, and Events Manager at Estancia de Lorenzo, warmly welcomed guests. A key moment was the announcement of the “Virtual Parol” Project beneficiary by Business Director Ms. Katrina Lorenzo-Casajeros, which highlighted the company’s commitment to community support.

    Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Libad Dancers of Guinayang High School delivered a special Christmas dance performance. In commemoration of Estancia de Lorenzo’s 9th Founding Anniversary, an AVP showcasing the resort’s milestones and the 2024 “Pamaskong Handog” Project was presented. COO Ms. Marietta Lorenzo shared a heartfelt message of gratitude with attendees.

    The evening continued with exciting raffle prizes and a song performance by Ms. Jackie, culminating in the highly anticipated announcement of the “Dine to Win” Grand Prize Winner.

    The highlight of the night was the Christmas Village Lighting, which illuminated the resort and officially launched the Christmas season at Estancia de Lorenzo.

    Discover more about Estancia de Lorenzo’s “Pasko Salubong” and New Year’s Eve Countdown by visiting their official social media accounts:

    • Facebook: Estancia de Lorenzo-Rizal
    • Instagram: @estanciadelorenzo.official
    • TikTok: Estancia de Lorenzo Rizal
    • Website: estanciadelorenzo.ph

    Important Reminder: For your security, please conduct all transactions exclusively through our official website and verified Facebook pages.

    Reference & Media Contacts:

    Ms. Jen Pagalilauan

    Mr. Richard Mamuyac

  • Literacy and Disability Inclusion Advocate Zacarias Mansing Jr. Crowned Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2025 Happiest Pinoy Among 500,000 Entries Nationwide

    Literacy and Disability Inclusion Advocate Zacarias Mansing Jr. Crowned Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2025 Happiest Pinoy Among 500,000 Entries Nationwide

    Recently, Cebuana Lhuillier has officially named Zacarias Mansing Jr., a passionate literacy and disability inclusion advocate, as the 2025 Happiest Pinoy. His remarkable journey of transforming personal adversity into a nationwide mission for children’s literacy resonated deeply across the country. Selected from more than 500,000 entries, his win marks one of the most extraordinary achievements in the history of Cebuana Lhuillier’s pioneering advocacy.

    The awarding ceremony, held last December 2, 2025 at Dusit Thani Manila, highlighted the depth and diversity of this year’s competition. Zacarias first emerged as one of the ten national category winners before advancing to the final round, where he stood alongside inspiring finalists representing youth and senior citizens, entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities, OFWs, members of the workforce, the LGBTQ+ community, creatives, indigenous peoples, and Cebuana Lhuillier clients.

    A distinguished panel of judges—comprising public servants, media professionals, social innovators, athletes, and former Happiest Pinoy awardees—evaluated the finalists through a comprehensive process rooted in four criteria: Resilience; Optimism and Genuine Happiness; Champion of Hope and Impact; and an X-Factor reflecting authenticity.

    Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier Inc., emphasized the significance of Zacarias’s win: “Zacarias reminds us that true strength is not the absence of hardship but the courage to lift others as we rise. His life—rooted in faith, grit, and service—captures exactly what the Happiest Pinoy seeks to celebrate: joy that transforms communities and inspires lasting change.”

    Zacarias’s story is a testament to that strength. After an accident abroad in 2012 left him paralyzed, he returned home determined to turn his challenges into purpose. Guided by his DRISO values—Determination, Resilience, Inspiration, Service, and Optimism—he launched the Books for Kids Project in 2017. From his wheelchair, he has traveled to more than 300 remote public schools and reached over 50,000 students, championing literacy, disability inclusion, and hope across Negros Oriental. “Being a Happiest Pinoy is about having a spirit that trusts God in all circumstances, and hands that are always ready to reach out to those in need,” he shared. Zacarias’s triumph is more than a personal victory—it is a powerful reminder that purpose can emerge from pain, and that one person’s resolve can ignite lasting change. His work continues to inspire communities, uplift young learners, and strengthen the movement that Cebuana Lhuillier began: a celebration of joy that endures, heals, and transforms

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Cebuana PR

    Ms. Lariza Garcia