SM Prime invests in future sustainability leaders with scholarship program

Motivated by the late Henry Sy Sr.'s conviction in the transformative influence of education and propelled by their dedication to sustainability, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), a prominent integrated property developer, has initiated a scholarship program in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).

Future sustainability leaders. Strengthening its commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship, SM Prime welcomes ten scholars from UPLB, who are taking up degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry.

Named the "SM Sustainability Scholarship," this endeavor mirrors SM Prime's dedication to ensuring educational opportunities and promoting sustainability efforts.

Video courtesy of SM Prime

The initiative will sponsor ten deserving students throughout their undergraduate studies at UPLB, enabling them to pursue degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry. These fields correspond with SM Prime's emphasis on constructing resilient communities and nurturing a sustainable future.

The scholarship awardees, selected based on their academic achievements and commitment to sustainability, were formally acknowledged during a meet-and-greet event at UPLB, signifying the commencement of their tenure as SM Sustainability Scholars.

SM Sustainability Scholarship. In the photo are the SM sustainability scholars with the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ Office of Scholarships and Grants Director Assoc. Prof. Ariel L. Babierra, Ph.D., College of Forestry and Natural Resources’s Prof. Marilyn Combalicer, College of Human Ecology Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr, Janette Malata-Silva, Scholarship Affairs Officer Ivy Salarde and SM Prime AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo with the rest of the SM team.

Every scholar will be granted a comprehensive scholarship encompassing tuition fees, a monthly stipend for living expenses, and a book allowance, ensuring they can dedicate themselves to their studies without financial concerns.

At the event, Dr. Jennifer Amparo, the Dean of the College of Human Ecology (CHE), emphasized that the journey toward sustainability is most effectively embarked upon through collaborative efforts.

“CHE is one of the colleges that puts a premium on interdisciplinarity and trans-disciplinarity because we believe that in sustainability, you don’t work in silos. We need to work together and build each other’s skills, know-how, and also our programs together to ensure sustainability. I would also like to thank SM Prime for putting emphasis on this scholarship. SM Prime did not just provide the finances or scholarship. They invested the time to really meet our scholars and provided other support mechanisms to ensure that our scholars thrive in their academic lives. This is also a manifestation of SM’s commitment to sustainability by really developing our future sustainability leaders.” ~(CHE) Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo, College of Human Ecology

College of Forestry and Natural Resources’ Prof. Marilyn Combalicer also extended the college’s support to the scholars on behalf of the college’s dean, Dr. Marlo Mendoza.

“We hope to continue nurturing such meaningful collaboration and initiatives that enhance our educational experience and initiatives for our students. Rest assured that we will continue providing support to our students in ensuring their growth and success in both academia and beyond.” ~Prof. Marilyn Combalicer, College of Forestry and Natural Resources

SM Prime’s AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo meets the SM sustainability scholars.

Meanwhile, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Corporate Communications, Rida Reyes-Castillo, echoed that the fundamental values of the company are intricately interwoven with both education and sustainability.

“SM Group’s founder, Mr. Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr. believed that education is a great equalizer, and he envisioned that sending one child to college would create ripples of social good not just for families but for an entire community. The improvement of the well-being of the youth and the partner communities is something that we at SM invest in.” ~Rida Reyes-Castillo, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Corporate Communications

For decades, the SM group has embraced the responsibility to contribute to nation building through social good programs that are geared towards quality education, sustainable agriculture, healthcare, and disaster response. By helping improve the quality of life of the people in these host communities, social development and investment go hand in hand with business growth to achieve a better future for all.

*This is a paid partnership with SM Prime Holdings.