Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija – Around 900 new college students were welcomed as part of the SM Foundation’s scholarship program, creating more opportunities for students to have a brighter future.

Following the main awarding ceremony at SMX Convention Center on July 20, SM Foundation held regional ceremonies across the country to honor scholars in their home communities.

On August 11, 2025, one of the ceremonies took place here at SM City Cabanatuan, as 16 new scholars from Nueva Ecija received their awards alongside family members and peers from their region.

According to SM Foundation, 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.