SM Foundation Welcomes New Batch of Scholars in Zamboanga City

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 5 August 2026 — Six (6) deserving students officially joined the growing family of SM Scholars as SM Foundation awarded scholarships to its newest beneficiaries during a ceremonial contract signing held at SM City Mindpro, together with their parents and guardians.

The event marked the beginning of a life-changing educational journey for the new scholars, reinforcing SM Foundation's long-standing commitment to making quality education accessible to talented and hardworking Filipino youth.

The scholars and their families were warmly welcomed by SM City Mindpro Assistant Mall Manager Engr. Rommel P. Bellen and SM Foundation Education Program Assistant Lynneth Gelilio, who both encouraged the students to pursue their dreams with determination, excellence, and gratitude.

In his welcome message, Engr. Bellen congratulated the new scholars for earning the opportunity through their perseverance and reminded them that the scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in their future and in the communities they will one day serve.

Representing SM Foundation, Gelilio introduced the Education Program and shared how the scholarship continues to transform lives by supporting students throughout their college education while nurturing values of leadership, service, and social responsibility.

Parents and guardians also took part in the ceremony, underscoring the important role of family support in every scholar's academic journey. Their presence highlighted the shared commitment between SM Foundation and families in helping students achieve their aspirations.

The SM Foundation Scholarship Program provides comprehensive educational assistance to qualified students, helping remove financial barriers to higher education while empowering them to become future professionals and nation-builders.

To date, there are thirty-eight (38) SM Scholars in Zamboanga City, reflecting SM Foundation's sustained investment in developing future leaders and creating opportunities that uplift families and communities through education.

For decades, SM Foundation has remained steadfast in its belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for nation-building. By opening doors to deserving students, the Foundation continues to inspire hope and transform lives—one scholar, one family, and one community at a time.

900 college freshmen receive scholarships from SM Foundation

Future changemakers. The SM Foundation welcomed 900 new SM Scholars in a ceremony held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on July 20, 2025. (seated SM Foundation Vice President for Education Programs Scholarship Ling Lansang, Shereen Sy, SM Engineering Design & Development Corp. (SMEDD) President Hans "Chico" Sy Jr., SM Investments Executive Director Harley Sy, SM Foundation Executive Director Debbie Sy, Matthew Sy, Mara Coson, SM Foundation Executive Director for Education Programs Carmen Linda Atayde, and SM Foundation Trustee Engr. Ramon Gil Macapagal)

SM Foundation, the social good arm of the SM Group, awarded 900 new college scholarships during a ceremony held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on July 20, 2025.

Passing wisdom to the next generation of SM Scholars. SM Retail SVP for HR Leny Hernandez, SM Scholar Alumna and SM Investments (SMIC) AVP-IT Jennilyn Mendoza, SMIC Executive Director Harley Sy, SMEDD President Hans "Chico" Sy Jr. leads a panel discussion, answering questions from the SM Scholars.

The scholarship provides full tuition coverage, monthly allowances, and access to various activities and opportunities designed to support academic and professional development. These include assemblies, part-time work during school breaks, on-the-job training, and employment opportunities within the SM Group after graduation.

During the ceremony, SM Foundation Executive Director for Education Programs Carmen Linda Atayde told the scholars that the scholarship is a recognition and a response to the efforts they have already poured in.

“Apart from support, the scholarship is also a vote of confidence in your ability, your direction, and your grit. Because you’ve already shown us that you believe in your future. Now, so do we,” Atayde said.

 

The Scholarship Program, established in 1993 by SM Group Founder Henry Sy Sr., aims to make education accessible and to support the development of future professionals through structured support and long-term opportunities, enabling scholars to uplift their families and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

 

Since its inception, the program has supported over 6,000 scholars across the country. (SM Foundation)