ESTABLISHED in 2008, the Felicidad T. Sy Foundation (FTSFI) carries forward the spiritual vision of its namesake by extending its reach beyond the chapels in SM Malls.

Recognizing the importance of fostering community connections, the foundation renovates and maintains these chapels and other Catholic religious facilities throughout the Philippines. This dedication ensures these spaces serve as vital hubs for prayer and gathering, enriching the communities they support.

Imelda Elido, the executive director of FTSFI, emphasizes that the foundation is deeply committed to the key values upheld by Mrs. Sy, particularly the importance of Catholic faith and the nurturing of Filipino families.

Ensuring faith stays at the center of modern lifestyles

In partnership with local dioceses, the foundation has created chapels in SM Malls to make worship more accessible for employees and customers. The chapels in SM Malls include:

• Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord, SM Megamall
• San Pedro Calungsod Chapel, SM Aura Premier
• Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Chapel, SM Makati
• Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Chapel, SM City North EDSA
• Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Chapel, SM City Grand Central

These chapels provide convenient spaces for masses and prayer, fitting into the modern Filipino lifestyle.

Elido shares that Sundays are family days, families can also engage in their faith and connect with their community while going to the malls. Amidst the busy daily grind, these dedicated prayer spaces also allow the faithful to pause and reconnect with their faith.

Supporting faithful communities, Filipino families

In addition to the mall chapels, the foundation has long supported the upkeep and rehabilitation of churches across various locations. The renovation focuses on improving safety, functionality, and aesthetics, creating a prayerful environment. The FTSFI has supported:

• San Pedro Calungsod, Cebu City
• Cross Tower, Cebu
• Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Hen. Uno, Cavite
• Mary the Queen Chapel, Jaro, Iloilo
• Mary The Queen Chapel, Tacloban
• John Mary Vianney Center for Priests
• Holy Family of Nazareth Chapel in NU-NS HSH
• Shrine of Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, MOA Complex

Looking ahead, Elido says: “Family is the strongest foundation of community life, and churches and chapels play essential roles in nurturing family bonds. Looking ahead, we will continue our programs that align with the values of our founder. In addition to religious activities for SM employees and the mass weddings known as “Kasalan sa SM,” we will also work to preserve churches for future generations while ensuring they remain functional for today’s Filipino Catholics.”