1,100SM Foundation New Scholars: The Largest College Batch Scholars in Program History

 

Newly awarded SM Foundation scholars pose with members of the Sy family, together with partners and guests, during the 2026 SM College Scholarship Awarding Ceremony at SMX Manila.

 The annual gathering celebrates a shared commitment to expanding access to quality education and empowering deserving Filipino youth to pursue their dreams and create a better future for themselves and their communities.

SM Foundation formally welcomed its largest-ever batch of 1,100 college scholars during its Scholarship Awarding Ceremony, strengthening its long-standing commitment to expanding access to higher education for deserving but financially challenged Filipino youth.

The 1,100 new scholars are the largest group to be admitted into the SM College Scholarship Program since its founding, which represents another significant achievement in the Foundation's endeavors to increase the accessibility of high-quality education for young Filipinos. They join thousands of students from all over the nation who have used the program to pursue higher education, many of whom have improved their families and communities and gone on to have fulfilling careers.

Industry leaders share insights during an interactive learning session for SM scholars. Joining the panel are (from second to fifth, left) Herson Sy, Executive Director of SM Markets, Sarah Miranda, Vice President of SM Investments, Darlene Jane Asi, Senior Manager of SM Prime, and Grace Gloria, Business Development Head of Mastercard Philippines. The session encouraged scholars to embrace challenges, build resilience, and prepare for opportunities beyond the classroom.

Established by SM founder Henry "Tatang" Sy Sr., the SM College Scholarship Program was created on the belief that education is one of the most effective ways to break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for lasting social mobility. Beyond financial assistance, the program equips scholars with holistic support throughout their college journey, helping them develop the knowledge, values, and confidence needed to succeed.

The event also featured an interactive session that encouraged scholars to reflect on the challenges they may encounter throughout college and beyond. Through engaging discussions and shared experiences, they were reminded that setbacks are part of every journey and that resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose are essential in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals.

Since its establishment, the SM College Scholarship Program has supported 7,376 scholars and produced 4,640 graduates. Each scholar represents a story of hope transformed into opportunity through education.

In support of the SM Foundation’s College Scholarship Program, ten outstanding STEM students have been named scholars for the 2026–2027 academic year. Their scholarships are sponsored by Mastercard through The SM Store’s Shop & Share program

As the newest members of the SM scholar community begin their academic journey, they carry with them not only the support of SM Foundation but also the opportunity to create lasting impact in their families, communities, and the nation.

 

Industry leaders share insights during an interactive learning session for SM scholars. Joining the panel are (from second to fifth, left) Herson Sy, Executive Director of SM Markets, Sarah Miranda, Vice President of SM Investments, Darlene Jane Asi, Senior Manager of SM Prime, and Grace Gloria, Business Development Head of Mastercard Philippines. The session encouraged scholars to embrace challenges, build resilience, and prepare for opportunities beyond the classroom.