Tutok To Win Party-List Representative and “Dear SV” public service show host Sam Verzosa has officially confirmed his plan to run for mayor of Manila in the 2025 elections.
The 37-year-old businessman announced a charity event held in Tondo, Manila, on Sunday morning, where he shared the overwhelming public support for his candidacy. “Yun na ang sigaw nila kahit saan ako magpunta,” Sam revealed when asked to confirm his intentions.
When questioned about a potential running mate, Sam responded, “Wala akong vice mayor. Meron o wala ang kailangan ko ay ang tao. Ramdam ko ang sigaw nila.” While he acknowledged that many had approached him about the role of vice mayor, he emphasized that his focus was on the people rather than political alliances.
Among his proposed policies, Sam promised to increase the monthly allowance for seniors in Manila from P500 to P2,000. He also pledged to improve food distribution for poor Manileños, replacing typical food relief items like sardines with higher-quality products such as Spam and Delimondo. “Lagi nilang sinasabi sardinas na naman. May kaliskis na kami… So mula ngayon, yan ang magiging standard natin sa pagbigay ng tulong,” he said.
Sam expressed frustration with the current system where seniors are required to wait in line for their P500 monthly allowance. “Pinapapila pa kasi nila ang mga senior sa halagang P500. Papipilahin mo pa ba ang mga lolo at lola mo na 85 years old? 75 years old?” he asked.
Critics have likened Sam to David from the biblical tale of “David and Goliath” as he faces formidable political opponents, including former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno. In response to these comparisons, Sam recounted his journey of overcoming obstacles. “Buong buhay ko David tayo eh. Walang asenso at hindi ka uunlad… Pero nagsikap ako,” he shared.
Sam also reflected on his interactions with Isko Moreno, noting that they had crossed paths during award ceremonies and community projects. Despite the competition, Sam maintained that his primary goal is to help Manileños: “Wala tayong ibang gagawin kundi puro kabutihan.”
In his personal life, Sam has been in a relationship with actress Rhian Ramos for three years. While they have not planned a wedding, Sam expressed gratitude for Rhian’s support, saying, “Maraming salamat talaga sa buong suporta na ibinibigay ni Rhian sa akin.”
Sam concluded by encouraging generosity and paying it forward, stating, “Maging mabait ka sa kapwa mo, tumulong ka kapag kaya mo, at magugulat ka na lang sa huli, bumabalik sa iyo yun ng ten folds.”