Liu Chi-chun, president of the Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps (TRMPC) , received the honor in a ceremony held in Manila Wednesday evening, making him the first Taiwanese citizen ever to obtain the award since its inception in 2002.

Liu was commended for his international humanitarianism as he has led like-minded Taiwanese medical professionals and volunteers to provide free medical treatment and healthcare in remote regions in more than 20 countries since he founded the TRMPC in 1995.

The dentist took part in more than 95 percent of the 200-plus overseas healthcare missions the non-governmental altruistic organization has conducted over the past 14 years.

Wu Hsiang-ping, Liu's work partner in the Philippines, recommended Liu for the Gusi Peace Prize's "international humanitarianism" award for his services that transcend geographical, political, racial, cultural and religious boundaries.

In his acceptance speech, Liu said peace is not achieved with words, but rather with deeds. One tends to do many things in one's life and if some of those things are done for the interests of others, not oneself, it would directly or indirectly contribute to world peace, he added.

Liu told the CNA after the awards ceremony that free healthcare services are his corps' core mission.

"We will continue carrying out this pursuit and welcome other like-minded people to join our ranks," Liu said.

In addition to overseas missions, the TRMPC has also provided free medical treatment for Taiwanese people residing in remote villages.

The Gusi Peace Prize was established by Filipino celebrity Barry Sotejo Gusi in 2002 in remembrance of his father. The prize mainly recognizes prominent international figures who have worked for world peace and human rights. The prize and the Ramon Magsaysay Award have become the Philippines' two most prestigious international awards.

Besides Liu, 18 other altruistic celebrities from the United States, Thailand, Malaysia, Romania, Cerupus, Paraguay, Switzerland, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Hong Kong and Macau were also awarded for their outstanding services in the legislative, judicial, medical, environmental, musical, educational, artistic and scientific fields.

Noted Chinese-American forensic expert Henry Lee received the prize last year, but he was awarded as an American, not as a Taiwanese citizen.

(By Emerson T. Lim and Sofia Wu)