Tutok To Win Partylist Representative Sam Verzosa has received the prestigious Gusi Peace Prize International Award, recognizing his decade-long commitment to philanthropy and humanitarian service.
The award was presented at a ceremony held at the Manila Metropolitan Theater on November 27, 2024. Verzosa, the youngest Filipino to receive the honor, was acknowledged for his contributions to promoting peace, upholding human rights, and fostering human dignity.
Verzosa’s philanthropic efforts date back to 2009, with initiatives that provide daily assistance to underserved communities. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude and pride in representing the Philippines on a global stage.
“I’m honored to receive this award dahil mare-recognize yung mga trabaho natin, yung mga ginawa nating tulong for the past 10 years,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of inspiring others to adopt a culture of giving. “Sabi ko nga we do this to inspire others para mas marami pang tumulong, to promote the culture of giving yung movement of helping. Kasi kapag maraming tumutulong, mas maraming matutulungang mga kababayan nating mahihirap at ang pangarap ko kapag naiangat na ang buhay nila ay sila naman ang magbigay ng tulong sa iba.”
Verzosa, who recently declared his candidacy for mayor of Manila in the 2025 elections, has amplified his efforts to serve his constituents. He has conducted daily outreach programs and spearheaded projects aimed at improving healthcare access in the city.
Notably, he auctioned several luxury cars, including one that belonged to his late father, to fund the construction of a diagnostic and dialysis center in Manila.
“Lalo ko pang gagalingan, lalo pa akong tutulong, lalo pa akong magbibigay. Hangga’t kaya kong ibigay, ibibigay natin para sa mga kababayan natin lalo na sa mga Manileño,” Verzosa added.
Aside from the Gusi Peace Prize, Verzosa is set to receive the Humanitarian of the Year award from another organization. The congressman considers the string of honors a testament to the impact of his initiatives.
“Sunud-sunod yung mga nakaka-recognize sa mga ginagawa natin. Natutuwa ako na marami nang nakakakita sa mga ginagawa nating kabutihan kahit pa kung anu-anong paninira ang ginagawa ng mga kalaban,” he said.
More photos from the awarding ceremony:
As he prepares for his mayoral campaign, Verzosa vows to elevate the lives of Manileños through sustained efforts in public service.
“Sana makita rin ito ng karamihan sa mg kababayan ko para next time kayo naman po ang tumulong,” he concluded.
The Gusi Peace Prize Foundation annually recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in their fields and contribute to the attainment of peace, human dignity, and respect for life.
