Class of 2024: Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

With smiles, camaraderie, and a shared sense of achievement, the Class of 2024 from Asia Pacific College (APC), a member of the SM group, gathered to celebrate more than just a graduation—it was a launchpad to meaningful careers. Representing the future of Philippine innovation and leadership, these graduates are proof of SM’s steadfast commitment to education that works beyond the classroom.

This year, 97.28% of APC’s graduates successfully landed jobs shortly after graduation—underscoring the institution’s mission to create not just degree-holders, but workforce-ready professionals. From tech and engineering to creative industries and entrepreneurship, APC alumni are stepping into the world armed with skills, values, and confidence.

“At APC, we don’t just teach—we transform,” said APC President Dr. Ma. Teresita ‘Tata’ Medado. “Graduation isn’t the end goal—it’s the beginning of a journey where our students shape their own futures with purpose, passion, and progress.”

The school’s success in bridging education and employability is validated by its 5-star QS Stars rating in employability, bolstered by a robust graduate tracer program. This system, run by students, monitors the career paths of APC alumni dating back to 2003, providing real-time insight into the impact of APC’s curriculum and career readiness programs.

Alumni success stories span various sectors. Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Andrew Charles Nakpil, an APC Electronics Engineering graduate, applies his discipline and technical expertise in the Philippine Navy. Meanwhile, Lea Bhel Araneta-Cabailo, a Multimedia Arts alumna, leads her own creative agency—TwinkleA Digital—as CEO, championing Filipino talent in global digital storytelling.

Beyond APC, SM’s larger educational ecosystem—including National University (NU) and the SM Foundation—amplifies the group’s vision of inclusive, transformative learning. SM Foundation’s scholarship program, in particular, supports thousands of young scholars who, like APC graduates, are now making waves in IT, finance, engineering, retail, and other key industries.

A recent SM Foundation alumni gathering drew 925 graduates from 27 batches, revealing that over 70% had pursued further education—an inspiring indicator of lifelong learning. Many are now employed in top-tier roles across both local and international companies, turning their academic journeys into real-world impact.

“The scholarship empowers young people to succeed, not just academically, but professionally and socially,” said Carmen Linda Atayde, Executive Director for Education Programs at SM Foundation. “Each graduate is a living testament to education’s power to transform lives and communities.”

In a world where jobs are constantly evolving, the SM group’s investment in quality education ensures that its students don’t just keep up—they lead. For the Class of 2024, the future isn’t just bright—it’s already unfolding.