n 1993, SM founder Henry “Tatang” Sy has established the SM college scholarship program – a social good vehicle that intends to carry out his vision of providing quality education to youth in grassroots communities.

The late SM patriarch believed that if you send one child from an economically challenged family to college, that child would have more opportunities to have gainful employment and later on uplift the economic status of one’s family.

Through the years thousands of youth have been given a shot at a college education nationwide – including Cebu, wherein 150 SM scholars and alumni come from – and here are some of their stories.

One of the current scholars in Cebu is 20-year-old Nathaniel R. Fabular of Hilongos, Southern Leyte, presently a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy at the University of San Carlos.

“When the SM foundation sent an email informing me that I was accepted as a scholar, I was really on cloud nine. I’m really grateful to Tatang and the SM Family for this opportunity. They shed some light in my path in order to achieve my dream,” Hilongos said.

Two years from now, Fabular will be graduating and aims to pass the CPA board examination. He is also considering post-graduate studies in law. But his priority once he graduates is to get a job so that he will be able to support his younger siblings in finishing their education.

“If I can get a chance, I want to work with the SM Group. I also want to give back to what the SM Foundation has given to me. I will do that by continuing the Legacy that Tatang has started – which is extending hands to the community,” he stated.

SM scholar Jose Rey Tabuco Buenavista, 34, graduated from the University of Cebu.

Applying the culture of an SM scholar has earned him the respect of his colleagues. From being a member of the project staff, he moved up to become a supervisor and eventually a manager. And to further his career and learning, he is currently pursuing his MBA at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business (AGSB)

SM Foundation, through its Scholarship program, provides deserving and qualified students with access to college education and technical-vocational studies since 1993. To date, SMFI has produced almost 5,500 scholar-graduates nationwide.

Source: Malaya