With so many achievements under his belt, some might be curious about Sam Verzosa’s next move. For the businessman, the answer is simple and resolute
It is often said that the most satisfying way to handle success is by generously sharing it with other people, and Sam Verzosa is the epitome of this principle. When asked why he’s so passionate about helping others, the businessman shared, “Siguro gusto kong maalala ng tao as Sam Verzosa na lumaki sa streets ng Sampaloc, Manila na nangarap, nagsumikap, na-iangat ‘yung estado niya sa buhay. Sa awa ng Diyos, sa paniniwala sa Diyos, sa blessing ni God, nalagpasan ko lahat ng problemang ‘yan. At na-turn ko lahat ito into opportunities na bumago sa buhay ko, kaya ngayon, ako naman ang babago sa mas maraming buhay ng mga tao.” Whether through helping others obtain an education or tirelessly pushing toward alleviating poverty, Sam is a shining example of the value of selfless service.
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Passion for education
“Education is a pathway out of poverty. It brings us opportunities and also enables us to help our parents.”
Sam opened up that he had a challenging childhood, particularly when it came to his education. Back then, it was difficult for his parents to pay for all five of their children’s school tuition. “It was really difficult for them kasi magkakasunod kaming magkakapatid. Every enrollment time was a problem,” he mentioned. So, he put in long hours and made great academic progress as a way to show his appreciation for his parents’ sacrifices. Today, Sam pays it forward by giving others a similar opportunity.
Sam Verzosa, commonly known as SV, has made tremendous efforts to support education initiatives. He generously donated computers and school supplies to his former schools and established internet hubs to assist children with their schoolwork. Aside from that, he also sponsored the E-Skwela Act bill in the House of Representatives, aiming to provide access to educational materials to students who lack them. Furthermore, Sam’s multi-level marketing company, Frontrow, through its corporate social responsibility arm, Frontrow Cares, puts great emphasis on education initiatives, giving them the assistance they need to succeed.
Mrs. Regino, one of SV’s teachers from grade school, says, “We’re super proud of him because he’s on a pedestal, but what makes me even prouder is that he looks back at where he came from.” Without a doubt, Sam Verzosa is a man who truly appreciates the transformative power of learning, but the fact that he makes it possible for others to further their education is much more impressive.
Fueling triumph
SV is committed to lifting Filipino families out of poverty. From serving as vice chair of the House Poverty Alleviation Committee to his company’s sponsorship of Tutok to Win show prizes that benefited his fellow Filipinos during the difficult COVID-19 pandemic, Sam genuinely puts in the effort to develop sustainable programs, giving other people the chance to achieve the same success he has.
The power of giving back
Aside from his pivotal role on the Poverty Alleviation Committee, SV also serves as vice chair for important committees like Disaster Resilience, Social Services, and Welfare for Children. Sam’s unwavering commitment is further demonstrated through his membership in housing development committees.
Furthermore, SV has made a significant impact through Frontrow Cares, positively influencing thousands of lives since 2008 through various outreach programs, disaster relief efforts, scholarship and livelihood help programs, and other humanitarian endeavors. As a testament to his dedication to making a difference, Miss Universe Philippines named Sam Verzosa as the director of charity, where he leads initiatives that uplift those in need.
Sporting philanthropy
SV’s emphasis on health and pursuing an active lifestyle come as no surprise. He used to play basketball in his community and at school, believing that sports have a transformative effect on people’s lives. The businessman goes a step further by sponsoring young athletes with the potential to become national players.
Recently, Sam combined his passion for sports and charity by running the 42-kilometer London Marathon in 2023 in support of the Smile Train Foundation, which provides access to life-changing surgery for children born with cleft lips and palates.
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Photos: SAM VERZOSA (via Instagram)
A man of honors and accolades
Sam Verzosa’s excellent work and dedication have earned him a great deal of recognition and a number of important awards. Notably, the American Association of the Philippines recognized him as their Philanthropist of the Year in both 2020 and 2021. In 2022, he and his business partner, RS Francisco, were recognized as the Humanitarians of the Year by People Asia Magazine for their remarkable charity work during the pandemic. Moreover, he was also honored in 2022 by the prestigious Asia Leaders Awards, which named him one of the Top 50 Rising Tigers in the Asia-Pacific region. Sam’s perseverance and dedication make it inevitable that he will continue to be honored and praised for his work in the years to come.
A lifelong commitment
With a string of accomplishments under his belt, the obvious question is, “What’s next for Sam Verzosa?” For SV, the answer is simple and uncompromising. Beyond business success and legislative pursuits, he remains committed to upholding his father’s legacy—to give help to those in need. Sam’s commitment to assisting others stems from his own experiences overcoming adversity to become who he is today. He emphasizes, “We do all this not just to help, but also to inspire and encourage others to do the same.” Undoubtedly, Sam proves that by lifting others, we elevate ourselves.
Featured Image: SAM VERZOSA (via Instagram)
