Sam Verzosa brings hope and hoops to the youth of Tondo
Sam Verzosa, the TV host turned politician, recently hit the streets of Tondo, Manila, not for a political rally, but for a youth basketball league. Amid the cheers, Verzosa took a moment to connect with the young players, sharing a message of hope and hard work.
“Andito tayo ngayon sa Tondo. Mamaya meron na naman tayong pagtitipon dito. Inuna ko muna itong liga ng mga bata,” Verzosa announced, prioritizing the kids’ event over political gatherings. He understands the power of connecting with the youth. “Ang mga kabataan naman laging excited ‘yan ‘pag nakikita tayo. Ako nandito lang para magbigay tayo ng konting suporta, inspirasyon sa kanila.”
A Familiar Face, A Shared Past
Verzosa’s presence resonated with the young players, many of whom recognize him from his television appearances and philanthropic efforts. “Nakikita daw nila ako sa TV, tumutulong, nandun sa Nazareno, nagbibigay ng mga livelihood, mga negosyo sa iba’t ibang kababayan natin sa Pilipinas,” he shared. But beyond the TV persona, Verzosa found common ground with the kids on the court.
“Pareho lang nila. Nagbabasketball lang din ako sa labas ng bahay namin. Mga ligang ganito sa kanto. Araw-araw, puro basketball lang ako noon,” he reminisced. He painted a picture of his own childhood, a time before social media and constant television, where his role models were his hardworking parents. “Tinitingala ko lang noon mga magulang ko eh. Kasi sila yung nakikita kong nagtatrabaho nun…Ang nakikita ko lang noon na nagsisipag sa amin yung magulang ko. Kaya nga dun lang din ako nakinig.”
His parents’ advice? “Wala silang ipapamana sa akin kundi pag-aaral.” This message became a driving force for Verzosa, propelling him towards academic success. “Kaya sinikap po talagang mag-aral nang mabuti hanggang maging valedictorian ako, hanggang makapasa ako sa UP Diliman, naging civil engineer ako. ‘Yun ang ginamit ko para iangat ang sarili ko sa kahirapan.”
Dreams, Determination, and a Dose of Inspiration
Verzosa’s story serves as a powerful example for the youth of Tondo. He encourages them to dream big, set goals, and work tirelessly to achieve them. “Lagi ko sinasabi, mag-aral sila nang mabuti. Mangarap sila. Doon nagsisimula ‘yun kapag may pangarap ka. Kapag may goal ka, kapag may gusto kang makamit sa buhay, gagawin mo ang lahat para makamit ‘yun,” he emphasized.
But it’s not just about hard work; it’s about faith and self-belief. “‘Yun lagi kong sinasabi. Mangarap ka, pagsikapan mo, gamitan mo ng pag-aaral, gamitan mo ng diskarte, dasal sa Diyos, at tiwala sa sarili para makuha mo ang mga pangarap mo para sa sarili at pamilya mo.”
A Contested Mayoral Race
Verzosa’s visit to Tondo comes amidst a heated mayoral race in Manila. He faces tough competition, including former mayor Isko Moreno. While birthday wishes were exchanged (“Happy, happy birthday sayo! I wish you good health.”), the campaign trail has seen its share of mudslinging and “fake news.”
Verzosa remains undeterred, focusing on his vision for the city and his commitment to serving its people. He has pledged to bring more businesses to Manila and improve the lives of its residents, particularly the elderly. He has already begun distributing aid and plans to implement programs that address the needs of the community.
Despite the challenges and the negativity, Verzosa continues to connect with the people of Manila, sharing his story, his dreams for the city, and a message of hope for the future.
