Some 1,100 SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI) college scholars had a warm welcome and send-off from their benefactor during the batch’s scholarship awarding ceremony at the SMX Convention Center last 3 July. On top of the financial support they would be getting from SMFI for their college journey, they also got meaningful advices from SM Group and other executives to help them cope with challenges and eventually succeed. 

Executive director of SM Markets Herson Sy told the scholars to choose the right people for guidance.

“Look for the ones who will keep you going forward,” he said.

Sarah Miranda, vice president-human resources of SM Investments, said the scholars can also have a plan to guide themselves.

She advised, “There will always be a better person than you but you can always be a better version of yourself.”

Former SMFI scholar and senior manager-sales admin of SM Prime Darlene Asi encouraged the scholars to be resourceful and maximize available resources.

“Always do your best and stay committed even if things become difficult,” Asi added.

Grace Gloria, business development head of Mastercard Philippines said that when things don’t go according to plan, “how you make the most of what you have matters.”

Gloria also urged the scholars to include others in their plan. 

“Think of how you would be able to contribute to others and the community,” she said.

Gloria also agreed with Sy’s advice when committing mistake.

“Own up to your mistake and correct it,” she said.

The 1,100 new SMFI college scholars for academic year 2026-2027 represent the largest batch accepted into the SM College Scholarship Program since the foundation started it in 1993, marking another milestone in its efforts to make quality education more accessible to the Filipino youth. Last year, the foundation supported 900 college scholars.

The new batch joins thousands of scholars from across the country who have pursued higher education through the program, many of whom have gone on to build meaningful careers and uplift their families and communities.

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.

To date, the scholarship program has supported 7,376 scholars and produced 4,640 graduates. Each scholar represents a story of hope transformed into opportunity through education.