According to the latest data from the Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA), nearly 11 million young Filipinos from ages five to 24 are categorized as out-of-school youth or not attending formal school. While several factors affect these statistics, one of the main reasons is socio-economic status and the high cost of education.

Believing in the power of education in transforming lives and in the talents and potentials of Filipino learners, the SM Foundation Education program awarded over 1,000 new college scholarships. In an event held last Aug. 18 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, these new scholars were gathered, marking the largest batch of SM Foundation scholarship recipients to date. 

Meet SM Scholar Gwyneth

One of the scholars is Gwyneth B. Alba, who’s taking up a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa campus. In an interview, Gwyneth openly shared that despite growing up in a loving family with supportive parents, life’s challenging situations pushed her to apply for a scholarship at SM Foundation. Her parents’ earnings are just enough for day-to-day living, but not enough to pay the increasing bills, to support her brother, who is battling bacterial meningitis, and to fund her education.  

“I understood at a young age that I needed a scholarship to pursue a higher education. I’d heard my parents argued at times over financial matters due to tensions and pressure arising over the bills. I started thinking at that time if we were already worrying this much over bills, how much more for my education?” Gwyneth said. “ I don't often cry to my parents due to not wanting to put more pressure on their old and hardworking backs, but this time I did.” 

After opening her heart and thoughts to her parents, they assured her that they would do everything they could to support her college education. But deep inside, she knows that it will be challenging for them. Then, one day, during a school activity, she came across SM Foundation, its SM Scholarship program, and its mission of spreading social good through various programs. 

“When I learned all about the scholarship, I was motivated to apply. The scholarship would not only be a big help but also a life-changing opportunity to help my family and me regarding my education. No longer would they have to worry about where to get money for studies,” she said. 

For 30 years, the SM Foundation has embodied the vision of SM Group founder Tatang Henry Sy, Sr., who saw education’s potential to uplift the youth and their families and communities. It has already supported over 5,000 scholars all over the country. The scholarship the foundation provides not only pays for the full tuition but also provides a monthly allowance.

On top of these, the program ensures a comprehensive approach to student development.  Scholars will also benefit from enrichment activities, part-time job opportunities, and internships within the SM Group, all designed to foster both personal and professional growth, creating a clear pathway from education to fulfilling careers. 

Get to know SM Scholar Jayvee

Another student who made it to the program is Jayvee Z. Celes, who’s taking up a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English from the National University. Jayvee came from a  family of nine. Have seven children, making it tough for them to support everyone’s education. 

Fully aware of their situation, he was inspired to apply for scholarship grants, knowing that finishing his education was his best chance for a better future. 

“A song said that life is not a race, but I want to live my life to the fullest. I don’t want to have regrets that I wasn’t able to experience things in life just because I didn't finish my education,” he said. “I want to pursue my college education and achieve my goal to be the first in our family to have a college degree despite our tough situation.”

Jayvee and Gwyneth are both grateful for the support and opportunities the SM Foundation has given them and the other scholars. They look forward to finishing their education, finding a job, and supporting their families. 

“Finishing my college education would be my foundation and stepping stone to a bright future that would break our family's poverty cycle,” Gwyneth said. 

“With a degree in the course that I am passionate about, I would be able to pursue a job in the industry I have dreamed of becoming a part of, and have a stable flow of income and security in our family—something that I have yet to experience,” he added, hoping to give back to the community through teaching. 

For Gwyneth and Jayvee, the SM Foundation's scholarship program is more than just financial support, it's a stepping stone towards empowering them to achieve greater heights.. May programs like this pave the way for fewer out-of-school youth in the Philippines – creating a brighter future for all.