Opening Doors Through Education
Every year, the SM Foundation College Scholarship Program opens doors for youth from vulnerable communities, offering them opportunities to pursue higher education. This program follows a careful and thorough selection process, choosing students who demonstrate both strong academic potential and a genuine passion for learning. Rooted deeply in the Foundation’s mission, it aims to uplift lives through education and support those who aspire to create positive change in society.
From Scholar to Public Servant
One inspiring example is James Matthew D. Wong, a 2015 scholar who continues to embody the program’s values. After completing his degree in Electronics Engineering from Asia Pacific College, he built a successful career as a senior consultant in his field. Yet, his dedication extends beyond his profession; he actively volunteers to ensure clean and honest elections.
James first became involved with the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) during his high school years. “I learned about PPCRV during the 2007 midterm elections when volunteers were mobilized in my home parish,” he shared. This early exposure ignited a lasting commitment that has carried him through every election since.
Growing Roles in Elections
Over time, James took on various roles within PPCRV, from serving as a poll watcher to acting as a diocesan coordinator. Most recently, he contributed to the national voter education and IT teams during the 2025 national elections. Stationed at a data center managed by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), he applied his technical skills to help maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
“As soon as I received the transmissions, I had to ensure they were sent promptly to the PPCRV Command Center,” he explained. This role deepened his understanding of the technology behind elections. “Receiving the results in their raw form reminded me of my data science training. I could even run my own analytics,” he added, crediting the guidance of his mentor, a senior IT director at PPCRV.
Life Lessons from the Scholarship Program
Reflecting on his journey, James credits the SM Foundation College Scholarship Program for shaping his values and mindset, especially during his college years. “Being an SM Scholar taught me that roadblocks don’t mean you have to stop—they mean you need to find another way,” he said. The program helped him grow not only professionally but also personally.
For James, giving back is a natural extension of what he received from the scholarship. “The program was an enabler for one to have the chance to succeed. It encouraged its scholars to swim the vast ocean and go far beyond our limits. We may be soaring high, but like they say, once an SM Scholar, always an SM Scholar. No matter how far we go, we’ll always find our way back—stronger, successful, and ready to give back,” he shared.
Encouraging Future Scholars
As the foundation prepares to welcome a new batch of scholars, James encourages future applicants to engage with volunteer organizations early. “Do not hesitate to reach out to organizations that need volunteers. Find what you’re passionate about and connect with groups that share your values. Working with these organizations gives you a chance to do what you love beyond school and the workplace, and allows you to create real impact in society. Change doesn’t happen overnight, it starts with small ripples from the good we put out into the world.”
For more news and updates on SM Foundation College Scholarship Program, visit Filipinokami.com.