Sam Verzosa auctions off 10 luxury cars and raises over Php200M to build a dialysis center in Manila
TV host and entrepreneur Sam Verzosa recently held a charity auction where he sold ten of his luxury cars, raising over P200 million to fund a dialysis and diagnostic center in Sampaloc, Manila. Among the cars that went under the hammer were a Lamborghini, Rolls Royce, BMW, Audi, Maserati, McLaren, Ferrari, and a Bentley—each vehicle a proof to Verzosa’s impressive collection.
Sam Verzosa was reunited with Battle of the Brains host David Celdran at the charity event. Fun fact: SV joined the prestigious Philippine quiz show in the ’90s.
However, the decision to part with these prized possessions, especially a Bentley that held immense sentimental value, was not an easy one. Verzosa shared that the Bentley was a special acquisition in honor of his late father, who dreamed of owning the car. “‘Yun (Bentley) ang pinaka-sentimental car diyan. Inisip ko kung gusto ko keep or benta kasi wala na father ko. It was one of his dream cars. ‘Yon rinequest niya sakin sana bilhin ko. Pero noong na-order ko na, he passed away before it arrived,” he recounted emotionally.
Despite his attachment to the car, Verzosa knew his father would have wanted him to make a difference through his philanthropic efforts. “Inisip ko kung i-keep ko for sentimental purposes or ibebenta ko. Pero mas matuwa tatay ko. Siya nagturo sa akin magbigay. Kahit walang-wala kami, last money, tumutulong siya,” he said, recalling the lessons of generosity that his father imparted to him.
Verzosa emphasized that the decision to build a Dialysis and Diagnostic Center was driven by the need for accessible healthcare in the community. “Pinili ko ito kasi tuwing umiikot ako kahit ‘di Maynila, lagi bulong sakin ‘yan. Pang check-up ospital, dialysis. This came from people asking help. Everyday from social media ko. ‘Yan lang hinihingi. Paano sila tutulong sa pamilya or may sakit. Naawa ko kailangan may gawin tayo,” he shared.
The Driven to Heal Charity Event, held at the Frontrow Headquarters in Quezon City, saw Verzosa letting go of some of his most luxurious vehicles to fulfill this vision. The Bentley, which his father had wanted, was just one of them. Verzosa said he struggled with his emotions when it was time to bid farewell to the vehicle. “Siyempre, nahirapan din akong gamitin. But I think, matutuwa ang tatay ko na… Siya yung nagturo sa akin na magbigay. Kahit walang-wala na kami, yung last money namin, itinutulong namin.”
As a member of the House of Representatives under the Tutok to Win party-list, Verzosa aims to continue using his influence and resources to expand his reach and support similar projects in the future. With the funds generated, Verzosa hopes to address the daily struggles of many families who cannot afford critical treatments.
“Most of the time kapag nag-iikot tayo or may lalapit sa atin, madalas na request nila pang-dialysis, pambili ng gamot, pandagdag sa bayarin sa ospital. Kaya ito ang naisip ko na gawin. Matagal ko nang plano ito,” Verzosa explained.
In addition to the dialysis and diagnostic Center, Verzosa has previously supported the construction of a bone marrow transplant facility at the Philippine General Hospital to benefit cancer patients. His dedication to healthcare stems from his personal experiences and a desire to create sustainable programs that address long-term needs.
Actress Rhian Ramos, Sam’s girlfriend, came to support the charity auction event
Despite his love for cars, Verzosa believes his father would have approved of his decision to turn these assets into life-saving resources for the community. “Nag-dialysis din siya [his dad] before he died. So, I think, gusto niyang mapupunta ‘to sa mga dialysis patients. Sa tingin ko, magiging proud siya sa taas,” he expressed, adding that he hopes others are inspired to give back in their own way.
Rhian expressed support for SV’s Manila mayoralty candidacy and philanthropy.
The auction, attended by various stakeholders, is not just about providing medical assistance but also setting an example. “As I’ve always said, we don’t just do this to help. We do this to inspire others to do the same,” Verzosa remarked, urging more people to channel their resources toward charitable causes.
By parting with the cars that once represented his success, Verzosa is now focusing on building a legacy that will last far beyond the luxury and glamour associated with his collection. His efforts are a reminder that philanthropy, no matter the form, can create a lasting impact on countless lives.
