The reason behind establishment of this peace award was to continue the ancestral legacy, as well as, to pay special tribute to Captain Gemeniano Javier Gusi, World War II guerilla[7] who subsequently became a politician and a human rights activist in the Philippines.

[14] Gusi Peace Prize Foundation receives more than 1000 proposals every year; however, the 13-member committee (with international jury members from Asia, Europe, Australia and United States)[15] selects only 15 winners.

As per the complex and rigorous criteria,[16] all proposed nominations should be endorsed by their relevant organizations/ local ministries who can subsequently certify the worth and achievements of nominees.

1476[27] signed by President of the Philippines Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on 17 March 2008,[28] declaring every fourth Wednesday of November as "Gusi Peace Prize International Friendship Day".

The act is punishable by imprisonment[32] Gusi admitted to not being diplomatic envoy under the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs clarifying he was an "honorary ambassador" of the Northern Mariana Islands.