Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines officials and volunteers marked the humanitarian organization’s 59th anniversary and the 88th birthday of its Taiwanese nun founder, Master Cheng Yen, with the three steps-one bow ritual and other programs across the country.

Photos of the walking meditation are posted on the Facebook pages of the Tzu Chi chapters, including at the Tzu Chi Great Love Village in Ormoc, Leyte last 21 April 2025. The village also saw its famous kneeling carabao named Alfreda joining in the ceremony with its own way of bowing to offer their gratitude to Buddha and Master Cheng Yen. The carabao was saved by Tzu Chi volunteers from being sold to the slaughter house.

In Manila, Tzu Chi Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez and first CEO Linda Chua led participants in this year’s walking meditation at the Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila.

In her birthday message, Master Cheng Yen calls on all Tzu Chi volunteers and beneficiaries in the Philippines to cherish time and steadfastly walk the Bodhisattva Path.

“Life is truly impermanent, but there is beauty in this world. As long as people cultivate good thoughts, do good deeds, and support one another, humanity will have light and warmth,” a post on Tzu Chi Foundation’s Facebook page read.

“On this meaningful day, let us act with mindfulness, cherish every moment, and together, sow seeds of compassion across the world,” Master Cheng Yen added.

Incidentally, 21 April was also the birthday of Michael Siao, deputy CEO of the Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines.