1,100 New Scholars Join SM Foundation, Largest College Scholarship Batch in Program History
PASAY CITY, Philippines, July 3, 2026 , 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 represent the largest batch accepted into the SM College Scholarship Program since its establishment, marking another milestone in the Foundation's efforts to make quality education more accessible to the Filipino youth. They join 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.
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.
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.
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.
A newly awarded SM scholar reviews the scholarship contract with her mother during the 2026 SM Foundation Scholarship Awarding Ceremony. The moment reflects the shared commitment of families and SM Foundation in helping deserving Filipino youth pursue higher education and build a brighter future.
Three newly awarded SM scholars celebrate with excitement at the SM Foundation Scholarship Awarding Ceremony held at SMX Convention Center.
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.
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.
Newly awarded SM College Scholars proudly hold their Certificates of Scholarship during the 2026 SM Foundation Scholarship Awarding Ceremony, marking the beginning of a transformative journey toward higher education and a brighter future.
