Bright Futures Ahead: Ten Students Earn Prestigious STEM Scholarships

Ten exceptional students have been named this year’s Ten Outstanding STEM Students (TOSS), thanks to a collaborative scholarship initiative by SM Retail’s Shop & Share program and Mastercard, in partnership with the SM Foundation’s College Scholarship Program.

The 2025–2026 TOSS scholars emerged from a rigorous three-stage selection process that involved screening applications, conducting online tests, reviewing academic portfolios, essay evaluations, and final interviews. The final panel interview, held at SM Retail Headquarters in Pasay City, was conducted by representatives from SM Foundation, SM Retail, SM Store, and Mastercard.

Out of a highly competitive applicant pool, 20 promising students made it to the final stage. From this group, ten outstanding individuals were chosen for their remarkable academic performance, excellence in STEM-related extracurricular activities, and strong personal interviews. The chosen scholars are John Vincent Adame, Cazandra Mae Bolo, Cris Dela Cruz, Harvey Julian Ermitanio, Chandre Julia Jaen, Yasmin Lardizabal, Alison Manimtim, Odessa Jean Meria, Khritz Junien Leigh Nacua, and Jocelyn Villahermosa.

Each recipient will receive a full college scholarship, a brand-new laptop, and opportunities for professional mentorship. They will also have access to special training and enrichment activities designed to help them grow as future leaders in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Career opportunities within the SM Group and Mastercard may also await them after graduation.

The TOSS initiative is a testament to the enduring partnership between the SM Group and Mastercard. It highlights their mutual dedication to uplifting Filipino youth through quality education and empowering the next generation of innovators and leaders in STEM.

Through this program, SM and Mastercard continue to invest in the nation’s future—one scholar at a time.