Prominent Filipino entrepreneur Sam SV Verzosa recently shared a poignant account of his journey from poverty to prosperity, highlighting his roots in Sampaloc, Manila.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Verzosa offered a glimpse into his challenging childhood and the valuable life lessons that shaped his success.
Verzosa’s story begins in a modest three-unit apartment building in Sampaloc, where his family initially rented the middle unit.
“Dati nirerent lang namin yung gitnang apartment dyan sa 3 unit na yan, 5 kami mgkakapatid mgkakatabi sa isang kama sa lapag kasama parents ko para tipid sa kuryente,” he recounted, describing the cramped living conditions that necessitated all seven family members sharing a single bed on the floor to save on electricity costs.
Despite facing numerous hardships, Verzosa credits his family’s resilience and faith for overcoming their struggles.
“Sobrang daming pagsubok na pinagdaanan pero nilaban lang namin at kinaya lahat ng problemang dumating samin, sa tulong ng Panginoon nalagpasan namin lahat ng pagsubok sa buhay namin dati,” he wrote.
Over time, the family’s fortunes improved, allowing them to acquire the adjacent units. This expansion provided much-needed space for the siblings to have their own rooms, marking a significant improvement in their living conditions.
Verzosa fondly remembers the streets of Sampaloc as his training ground, both in life skills and basketball.
“Sa mga KALYE ng SAMPALOC ko natutunan karamihan ng Diskarte ko sa buhay,” he reminisced, adding that daily basketball games with stakes of ice water or soda honed his skills in the sport.
Education played a crucial role in Verzosa’s journey. He recalls his parents’ emphasis on studying, quoting them: “Sammyboy mag aral ka mabuti kse yan lang maipapamana namin syo.” This motivation drove him to secure a scholarship at the University of the Philippines Diliman and later excel in business.
Verzosa’s entrepreneurial success came early, as he notes, “I made my first Million nung 22 palang ako.” He attributes his achievements to hard work, business acumen, and divine guidance, often recalling his late father’s advice: “Anak, wag na wag ka makaka limot sa Kanya.”
Now in a position to give back, Verzosa expresses joy in helping his former community.
“Ngayon masaya ako na nasa position ako para maka tulong sa mga kalugar ko sa Sampaloc at buong Maynila,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and faith in overcoming life’s challenges.
Verzosa’s story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating how determination, hard work, and community support can lead to significant personal and professional growth. His journey from a crowded apartment in Sampaloc to becoming a successful businessman underscores the potential for upward mobility in Filipino society, while also highlighting the persistent challenges faced by many urban families in the Philippines.
As Verzosa contemplates, “Sa Sipag at Diskarte at sa tulong ni God dadating dn panahon malalagpasan mo mga problema at makakatulong kadin hindi lang sa pamilya mo kundi pati nadin sa kapwa mo,” encapsulating his belief in the power of hard work, ingenuity, and faith to overcome adversity and ultimately help others.