25 June 2026
Benilde Antipolo and SM Foundation, Inc. signed a Memorandum of Agreement on June 18, 2026 at Vatel Manila in The Atrium@Benilde. The partnership opens more scholarship opportunities for Filipino students and builds on both institutions’ shared commitment to accessible education.
The agreement came together quickly. SM Foundation reached out earlier in June, and within ten days the partnership was formalized. Leaders from both sides attended the ceremony, underscoring the importance of the collaboration.
Chancellor Benhur Ong expressed gratitude and excitement: “This is, I think, the first time that we are going to have a partnership with the SM Foundation. We are really excited, and we are very grateful for the scholarship opportunities that you have granted.” He said he hopes SM Foundation leaders can join future graduation ceremonies and that this partnership will lead to more collaborations. He also noted that the partnership could eventually expand to include Benilde Manila, showing openness to broader projects in the future.
SM Foundation Executive Director Carmen Linda Atayde shared how the foundation has grown over three decades: “We started with the aim of helping more students go to college, those students who cannot afford to pursue higher education. That is still our main core.” She explained that Benilde’s involvement will help the foundation explore new approaches to scholarships. Her message showed that SM Foundation sees this partnership as a way to evolve alongside the needs of students.
She added that while the foundation began with four priority courses in education, technology, engineering, and accountancy, it now sees the need to support more fields as SM itself expands: “Some areas require us to really open our eyes to new opportunities as SM grows. So we also have to grow with SM.” This statement made clear that the foundation is ready to adapt and broaden its reach.
Provost Geronio Ulayao emphasized the alignment of values: “Thank you very much for considering Benilde Antipolo. As you both mentioned, our values align, and that is our commitment to delivering quality education. In Benilde Antipolo in particular, at a very reasonable price point.” His words highlighted how Benilde Antipolo continues to make Lasallian education affordable for the community.
He added: “We hope to be able to work with you to provide more opportunities for students who are in need. Because sometimes they only need a little push and assistance to be able to succeed in life.” His message captured the heart of the partnership, giving students the support they need to move forward.
Benilde’s scholarship and outreach programs make a real difference for communities. In 2025, the Armed Forces of the Philippines gave the College a Plaque of Distinction for its support to families of fallen soldiers. That recognition showed how Benilde steps in to help where it matters most.
Scholarships at Benilde Antipolo are worth giving because they support students who succeed. One of Benilde Antipolo’s recent distinctions is the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English program posting a 100% passing rate in the 2026 Licensure Exam for Teachers, compared to the national average of 73.10 percent. The result shows how the College continues to uphold the quality of education that helps students excel in their chosen fields.
For more information on Benilde Antipolo’s program offerings, contact us at (+63) 2 8667-1334 / (+63) 2 8667-1300 local 7802 for admissions-related inquiries, and (+63) 8667-1333 local 7805 for scholarships-related inquiries, or email admissions@antipolo.benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
