Two SM Foundation scholars credited the organization instituted by SM Group’s patriarch, “Tatang” Henry Sy Sr., for their bright future after completing their college courses.

In an interview, Erwin Matthew Quiza, an Eastern Visayas State University graduate, said the SM Foundation Scholarship Program has helped him financially, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“We had many projects in our school back then, and I am very grateful for their assistance in helping my parents augment my education needs,” Quiza, a Civil Engineering course graduate, said.

He recalled climbing the top of a hill in Leyte to obtain a stronger signal for him to file his scholarship application online.

“I am happy and deeply grateful to be chosen by the Foundation, especially knowing how many others applied for the scholarship,” he said. 

Bridge over crisis

For her part, Jaycel Anne Belaras, a graduate of the University of Batangas, recalled that her parents were financially burdened during the contagion.

“With the help of SM Foundation, I received financial aid, as my parents were unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The allowances from SM were also our saving grace in 2020,” Belaras, also a Civil Engineering course graduate, said. 

The program provides holistic support to its scholars, including full tuition fees, allowances, training, gatherings, part-time jobs, internship opportunities, and employment opportunities within the SM Group.

Asked what pieces of advice they can provide to students who don’t have the financial means to finish college, Quiza said: “Seek out organizations or individuals who can support your dreams, much like the SM Foundation does.”

Belaras, on the other hand, told students to be resourceful when finding scholarship grants. 

“I encouraged my high school batchmates to apply for the SM Foundation scholarship, but they chose not to. I embraced the challenge and persevered, ultimately earning my college degree. Perseverance is key,” she said.

She is now employed with SM Engineering Design and Development as her way of paying back SM, while Quiza is just waiting for the result of his Engineering Board Exams and planning to work with one of the various companies of the SM Group. 

Of the total graduates, 63 finished with honors: three Summa Cum Laude, 29 magna cum laude, 27 cum laude, and four with academic distinction.

“You faced one of the most challenging periods in recent history, yet you persevered with resilience and determination,” SM Foundation Executive Director Debbie Sy told the graduates during the honoring rites. 

“Your achievements are not just individual successes; they are powerful symbols of hope and strength for your families and communities,” she maintained.