24/10/2026
On 24 October 1632, the Colegio de Santa Isabel was formally established in Intramuros, Manila.
Recognized as one of the oldest educational institutions in the Philippines and Asia, the college was established primarily to educate the orphaned daughters of Spanish soldiers and other Spanish orphans. Years later, it opened its doors to Filipino girls as well, expanding its role in women's education.
In 1864, the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul assumed the administration of the institution, continuing its mission of education and service. However, the college was totally destroyed during the Battle of Manila in 1945, amid the devastation of World War II.
Despite this loss, the institution persevered. The college transferred to its present location along Taft Avenue in Ermita, Manila. Today, known as Santa Isabel College of Manila, it continues its longstanding tradition of education and service, carrying forward a legacy that began in the Walled City.
