In a fun and meaningful gathering, the HAPI Youth of Alabang and Bulacan came together to celebrate the birthday of Marissa Langseth, fondly known as “Ms. M,” the inspiring founder of Humanist Alliance Philippines, International (HAPI). It was a lively celebration made possible through the collective efforts of the youth members, who brought food to share in a potluck that perfectly reflected the spirit of generosity and unity Ms. M has always inspired.
The celebration was full of laughter. The kids and youth members enjoyed a feast made up of dishes: spaghetti, bread, and cake—simple treats made meaningful by the collaboration behind them. They even had access to a swimming pool, turning the day into a truly memorable experience. Every part of the celebration came from their effort to celebrate, driven by the values and inspiration Ms. M had fostered in them. The event also embodied the core values of HAPI: humanism, education, and compassion.
With every dish prepared and every laugh shared, the members honored the woman who laid the groundwork for their shared mission. It was a day full of warmth, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to the ideals Ms. M has long championed.
HAPI was born from Ms. M’s vision. Concerned about the overwhelming influence of religiosity in the Philippines, she founded HAPI on December 25, 2013. It was officially launched on January 1, 2014, as a safe, inclusive space for Filipino non-believers, a platform for standing up against discrimination and disinformation in a society where reason and secular morality are often overlooked.
HAPI spreads the message that kindness, ethics, and empathy don’t require religious belief.
For more than a decade now, HAPI has been helping communities through outreach programs, education drives, feeding initiatives, environmental campaigns, and so much more. Thanks to its passionate members and dedicated leaders, HAPI continues to grow, reaching more people from all walks of life and spreading the message that kindness, ethics, and empathy don’t require religious belief.
Ms. M’s personal story is one of resilience, generosity, and impact. She came from humble beginnings and became financially independent at an early age, driven by a desire to support her family and help others. She is now retired and enjoying life, traveling the world, embracing the freedom she worked so hard to achieve. Even in retirement, she continues to inspire others with her independence, generosity, and lifelong commitment to helping people think freely and live meaningfully.
For HAPI Youth, this birthday celebration was the definition of happiness; it was a heartfelt tribute to the values HAPI and Ms. M. had long yearned for. Through shared meals, laughter, and reflection, the youth expressed their gratitude and celebrated the legacy that continues to guide their path.
As HAPI grows and evolves, reaching more people and changing more lives, it stays rooted in the vision Ms. M planted years ago. Her journey is a powerful reminder that real change starts with one person’s courage—and that anyone, regardless of background, can spark a movement that inspires thousands.
Happy birthday, Ms. M! Your legacy lives on in every individual you’ve empowered, every community you’ve touched, and every voice that dares to question and care.
