Sam ‘SV’ Verzosa reflects on 16 years of devotion to Poong Hesus Nazareno

For 16 years, Sam ‘SV’ Verzosa has remained steadfast in his devotion to the ‘Poong Hesus Nazareno’, a journey that has deeply shaped his faith and purpose.

During an interview on January 8 at the Quirino Grandstand, Sam ‘SV’ Verzosa shared the personal transformation his devotion has undergone.

He expressed, “Karaniwang dasal ko para sa sarili, sa pamiliya, pero no’ng mga nakaraang taon po puro sa ibang tao na po lalo na sa bayan natin. Ngayon para sa lungsod natin ng Maynila. Yun po ang dasal ko na magkaroon ng improvement sa pamumuhay ng mga kababayan natin.”

Recalling the early years of his devotion, Sam shared that he and his family would bring the Black Nazarene from Quiapo to Quirino Grandstand, using his father’s truck.

“Pang-16 year ko na po na deboto ng Mahal na Poong Nazareno. Nung mga nag-uumpisa kami [2009 – 2012], kami po ang nagdadala sa Mahal na Poon dito sa Quirino, galing sa Quiapo. Truck po ng tatay ko yung ginagamit.”

As he marks 16 years of continuous devotion, Verzosa reflects on the gratitude he feels, acknowledging not only the blessings he has received but also the opportunity to serve others.

“16 years ago, hanggang ngayon, tuloy-tuloy po yung pamamanata ko. At sabi ko nga sobrang pasasalamat ko. Hindi lang naman ito puro hingi e. Marami dito pasasalamat. Pasasalamat sa lahat ng biyaya niya – good health, success, mga tagumpay ko sa aking karera. Sa blessing, sa mga biyayang binigay niya.

“At ngayon na nilagay niya ako sa posisyon para tumulong at para bumago ng mas maraming buhay. Patuloy yung pasasalamat ko. At siyempre may mga dasal ako, hindi na po [para] sa akin, more on [para] sa mga kababayan natin. Hindi lang sa Maynila, siyempre para sa lahat po,” he continued.

Sam Verzosa was recognized this year as one of the Hijos del Nazareno. He also joined the annual Traslacion, walking alongside thousands of fellow devotees in a powerful display of faith and unity.

His participation in the revered procession highlights his deep connection to the Black Nazarene, a tradition that continues to inspire countless believers. Sam’s unwavering dedication serves as a testament to his faith, service, and devotion. Viva Señor Nazareno!