The head of one of the longest serving US-based charitable organizations was conferred with the Outstanding Manilan Award by former Philippine president and now Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada
George Samson is the president of World Medical Relief Inc., (WMRI), a Michigan-based humanitarian organization that was formed during the Korean War.
Estrada conferred the award during the celebration of the 445th Foundation of this city. Samson joins a stellar group of awardees that include broadcaster Mike Enriquez, former Manila mayors Mel Lopez and Antonio Villegas.
Former Ambassador and Senator Ernesto Maceda was also conferred the Gat Andres Bonifacio Award, the highest honor given by the premier city.
Samson’s Outstanding Manilans award was in the field of Medical and Social Services field after being made as Manila’s adopted son through a city council resolution passed in 2015.
The former president acknowledged the support given by Samson to the health programs of this city.
“Dr. Samson is instrumental in the donation of state-of-the-art medical equipment to Manila’s district hospitals whereby the city government fulfills its commitment to improve quality of life of our citizens,” Estrada said in his speech.
Under Samson’s tutelage, WMRI has donated an estimated $5 million worth of hospital equipment, medicines, medical supplies and apparatus to this city’s district hospitals.
In accepting the award, Samson expressed thanks to the City Government and those who support humanitarian missions of WMRI.
Joining Samson in the conferment are his wife Dr. Sheila Samson, son George Jr., parents Roberto and Erlinda Samson, WMRI Ambassador of Health Dr. David Zarate and wife Jinky, close friends Rene De Mesa and Rudy Mallari.
Samson will also be conferred a doctorate degree by the Pamantasan ng Lungsod Ng Maynila late this year.
Previously, he was also recognized as adopted son in Angeles, Mabalacat, San Fernando and other cities. Last Tuesday, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Angeles City passed a resolution expressing “utmost recognition and commendation to Samson.
The recognition, sponsored by Coun. Morales, states “these (recognition) is making us proud that a Capampangan like Dr. George V. Samson had been given much deserved accolades worthy of being echoed right in the midst of his own Cabalens”.
“A truly outstanding, illustrious and distinguished Capampangan,” the resolution added.
WMRI is a US-based charitable organization founded in 1953 by spouses Lester and Irene Auberlin whose mission is to reach people in need especially medical attention. It has been serving more than 120 countries across the globe.
Samson has been appointed to carry on with that mission after earning the trust of Mrs. Auberlin, with his stint first as stock room officer, to operations head then director for operations until being entrusted the helm of WMRI.
He has received various recognition in countries he has visited. In the Philippines, he was finalist in Ten Outstanding Filipino Awards, and recipient of Most Outstanding Capampangan Award, conferement of doctoral degrees, among other prestigious citations.
Congratulations, Dr George V. Samson! We are mighty proud of you! You enabled the torch passed on to you by Mrs Auberlin to shine much brighter not only in the US but all over the world by the numerous donations WMRI has made to benefit the sick poor & needy all over the globe. What an honor & privilege to be given such an opportunity & blessing by our Lord! Carry on my friend. God bless you more.