Cebuana Lhuillier-backed search crowns first Happiest Itogonian

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A LOCAL celebration of hope and resilience culminated in the naming of Kristine Joy Semillia, a 23-year-old psychology student and mental health advocate, as the first Happiest Itogonian during the awarding ceremony held at the Fianza Memorial Gymnasium.

The Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI), in partnership with the Municipality of Itogon and the Itogon Indigenous Peoples Organization (IIPO), launched the localized Search for the Happiest Pinoy earlier this year as one of its special initiatives to inspire communities and honor individuals who live with optimism and purpose despite adversity.

FIRST HAPPIEST ITOGONIAN Kristine Joy Semillia (third from left), a 23-year-old psychology student and mental health advocate, was recognized as the first Happiest Itogonian. PHOTO FROM CEBUANA LHUILLIER FOUNDATION INC.  

“Our goal has always been to shine a light on stories that uplift and inspire,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, PJ Lhuillier Inc. president and CEO. “Efforts like these allow us to recognize the resilience of Filipinos like Kristine — individuals who prove that happiness is not the absence of hardship, but the triumph of spirit. Her story is exactly why we do what we do.”

Semillia was only eight years old when she survived the devastating 2009 landslide in Barangay Loacan caused by Typhoon Pepeng, which claimed the lives of her parents, sister, and nine other relatives. Now a Naval Reservist, youth leader, and motivational speaker, she shares her powerful journey to ignite hope, foster healing, and empower trauma survivors and young people across Itogon.

“I am not just a survivor — I am a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and community,” Semillia shared during her speech, attributing her strength to her unwavering faith in God.

Winners were chosen from five sectors: Women, PWD, LGBTQIA+, Public Servants, and Youth, with each honoree receiving P3,000 and a certificate of recognition. As the overall winner, Kristine received P20,000 and a commemorative plaque.

The other awardees included:

•  Myra Gwyn Cornel Guilao (Women): A health officer and single mom who overcame serious health issues during college.
•  Jenifer Elitan Sadey (PWD): A Stage 5 dialysis patient who provides spiritual and emotional support to fellow patients.
•  Greg Landocan (LGBTQIA+): A Magna Cum Laude graduate and educator who advocates for inclusivity while caring for his ailing mother.
•  Juna Ballasio-Tavara (Public Servant): A devoted teacher known for her compassionate support of students with disabilities and special needs.

CLFI Executive Director Jonathan Batangan added, “Beyond the gold mines Itogon is known for, its true treasures are its people, those who rise above adversity with a smile and a sense of purpose.”

Itogon Municipal Mayor Bernard Waclin described the event as “a tribute to everyday heroes who inspire happiness, kindness, and hope in our community.”

As Semillia stood before her community — strong, smiling, and deeply grounded — she embodied what the Search set out to celebrate: the undeniable light of someone who has been through the darkest storms and still chooses joy.

The Search for the Happiest Itogonian is among the special grassroots efforts launched by the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation in collaboration with local government units and academic institutions. It serves to build momentum for the Global Search for the Happiest Pinoy, Cebuana Lhuillier’s nationwide campaign recognizing exceptional Filipinos from all walks of life.

The grand winner of the national search will receive a tax-free cash prize of P500,000, while finalists in each category will receive P35,000 tax-free.

This year’s search introduces a broader and more inclusive set of categories, recognizing inspiring individuals from all sectors of society. These include Masayahing Gen Z, honoring the optimism and energy of today’s youth; Happy at 60, celebrating seniors who embody joy and grace; No Way Kapansanan, recognizing persons with disabilities who inspire through perseverance; Inspiradong Champion, spotlighting manual laborers and professionals who uplift their peers; Bagong Bayani, Hatid Sigla, a tribute to overseas Filipino workers spreading joy across borders; Bibo sa Negosyo, for entrepreneurs making a difference in their communities; Proud as Pride, celebrating LGBTQIA+ individuals whose happiness inspires courage and inclusivity; and Creative Pinoy, honoring artists and digital creators who spread joy through their craft.

Special awards will also be conferred to outstanding individuals under the Katutubo category for members of indigenous communities, and the Happiest Ka-Cebuana award.

For more details, visit www.happiest-pinoy.com.