A customer who was dining alone on her birthday received a thoughtful surprise from the staff of a fast food restaurant in Cebu City.
Facebook page Proud Bisaya Bai shared the video from Jollibee Boulevard’s manager Cristine Sumayang Bustillo, who said that she assisted the celebrant named Lani. She said the lady used crutches and had poor eyesight.
Cristine found out that it was Lani’s birthday when she saw her PWD ID. She then asked the crew to prepare a simple surprise for her.
Lani cried tears of joy when they started singing “Happy Birthday” and handed her a balloon and chicken sandwich topped with a candle.
The video has garnered 42k reactions and 961k views as of this writing.
Cristine said she did not expect that the video would gain much attention because they only wanted to make the woman happy on her special day.
“I never thought a simple gesture can go a long way. All I wanted is to make her happy on her bday, she’s alone on that day and there’s a lil bit of sadness in her eyes when I interacted and had a short conversation at the lobby,” she said.
She added that she is hoping that the video will serve as an example that simple acts of kindness can mean a lot to someone.
“I hope this inspires everyone that kindness can make a difference in anyone’s life. Thanks to my supportive crew who responded immediately to my request para ma surprise namo si Mam Lani,” she added.
Meanwhile, netizens also extended their birthday greetings for Lani.
“Happy birthday po. Naiyak din ako,” a commenter said.
“The best characteristic of a Filipino is kindness. Kahit ang daming nagyayari sa ating mundo, that trait is still there. happy birthday Maam!” a Facebook user said.