Cebuana Lhuillier’s flagship advocacy, Happiest Pinoy, won a Bronze Stevie Award for Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility at the 23rd Annual International Business Awards.

The International Stevies attracted more than 3,400 nominations from organizations across 82 nations and territories, with winners evaluated by more than 210 professionals across 11 specialized panels.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, president and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, said the international recognition highlights the importance of optimism in driving social change. He cited that the advocacy aims to spark a ripple effect of hope and mutual support among Filipinos.

The 2025 search generated more than 500,000 entries nationwide, featuring expanded categories for Gen Zs, seniors, persons with disabilities, overseas Filipino workers, entrepreneurs, artists, Indigenous communities, and LGBTQIA+ advocates. To broaden accessibility, entries were accepted online, via video, and at physical Cebuana Lhuillier branches.

The initiative also featured a nationwide roadshow that engaged student leaders, local government representatives, educators, and marginalized sectors. L

A diverse panel of judges from government, business, media, and social development evaluated finalists based on resilience, authenticity, and community impact.

Zacarias Mansing Jr., a literacy and disability inclusion advocate from Negros Oriental, secured the ₱500,000 grand prize among 10 national category winners.

Paralyzed after an accident, Mansing founded the Books for Kids Project, which has reached more than 50,000 students across 300 remote public schools.

The advocacy has since expanded into the digital sphere through the #SimpleJoysPH movement, which features online storytelling, a songwriting contest, and a dance challenge to sustain the celebration of everyday Filipino joy year-round.