Rep. Sam Verzosa received three awards during the 20124 Asia Leaders Award ceremonies held at the residence of Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines Agus Widjojo at Forbes Park in Makati City recently.

Sam was awarded the Humanitarian of the Year, Outstanding Achievement Award for Public Service Program Excellence (Dear SV on GMA), and Outstanding Achievement Award for Public Service Program Host (Dear SV on GMA).

"I am so grateful and overwhelmed kasi ginagawa ko lang naman yung mga gusto ko na magpapasaya sa akin. Tapos bibigyan pa nila ako ng award on the side," said Sam. 

The television host added: "Bonus na lang sa akin ang award kasi ang importante sa akin ay yung mga tao na natutulungan namin. We are paying it forward para yung mga tinulungan namin ngayon, sila naman sana ang tumulong sa mga nangangailangan para ma-uplift ang buhay ng ibang kababayan natin."

Sam is committed to fostering a culture of generosity and support.

Before this, Sam said he was honored with the Gusi Peace Prize for his contribution to attaining peace and respect for human life and dignity.

'First Lady of Manila'

Actress Rhian Ramos accompanied her boyfriend Sam to the awarding ceremonies in Makati City, explaining that she initially thought she wouldn't be able to make it due to her tight schedule.

"Sam has done his very best to be present for me and to be supportive of me. Nasa movie premieres rin siya ng mga movies ko. So, as much as possible, I try to be around also at a moment like this. I am so proud of him. I just want to take his photos on the sidelines," Rhian said. 

Rhian was asked if she was ready to become the First Lady of Manila if Sam wins the 2025 midterm elections.

"If that's what God wants for my life, then hindi ko na rin mahihindian yun," the actress said.

Rhian also shared what kind of partner she would be to Sam if he became the next Manila mayor. "I'll make sure that he eats and sleeps. When Sam has his events, especially with charity events, I can always help out and be present."

She added: "I'm fortunate we have that kind of culture of (supporting each other) in our relationship. We try to be there with each other, whether physically, emotionally, or for our mental state."

Sam mentioned that Rhian is always there for him, no matter the circumstances.

"Kahit naman wala siya roon sa pinupuntahan ko. Yung mga ginagawa ko, karamihan doon may influence rin niya. Kapag may mga kailangan akong sabihin at gawin may influence pa rin niya," Sam said.

Sam also considers Rhian his lucky charm through the years.

"But more than the charm, it's really her heart and brains that's helping me. Nabibigyan ako ng peace of mind and magagandang payo. Nakakalma niya ako kapag may bashers. We motivate and inspire each other. So thank you, Rhian, for being my lucky charm and love of my life," Sam added.

Reacting to Sam's comment, Rhian said: "I'm so proud of him for the recognition he's getting. I feel that he truly deserves it. I know that he doesn't do it for awards, but it's nice when he gets recognized for his efforts and services."