Established in 1959 Lourdes School of Mandaluyong stands proudly. It’s a testament to the Capuchin Fathers’ missionary zeal. They arrived in the Philippines in 1886. They initially settled in Intramuros then Quezon City. The Ortigas family offered land. This generous act made the school possible. A three-hectare lot along Shaw Boulevard became its home.
The cornerstone was laid in May 1957. It was an L-shaped structure. It combined a parish and school. On October 4 1958 Cardinal Santos blessed it. The feast of St Francis of Assisi marked the opening. The school started with only one hundred students. They were from Grades One to Four. Father Gregorio Giocochea was the first headmaster.
The 1970s brought significant growth. St Francis Church was built. A new high school building rose. A canteen an air-conditioned library and a swimming pool followed. A 521-seat auditorium was also constructed. It was fully air-conditioned. Father Jose Luis Arrieta emphasized Christian Life Education. Outreach programs to nearby areas started. This outreach work continues today.
The 1980s saw more progress. The PTA helped build shower and dressing rooms. They also extended the canteen and added a covered walk to the pool. A second floor was added to the high school building. More facilities followed. The old gymnasium was replaced by the Pax Et Bonum Building. This building opened in February 1991. It houses classrooms for the preparatory level and Grade One. It also contains the Grade School Library. Technology and Home Economics classes are there. The Guidance PTA and Faculty Rooms are there too. A gymnasium is part of this building.
In 2006 three new buildings were constructed. The St Lawrence of Brindisi building is four stories high. It houses classrooms and a relocated library. A new science laboratory is also housed within. This building honors St Lawrence of Brindisi. The Padre Pio gymnasium was built on top of the multipurpose hall. A new parking lot facing the old Medical City was added. Lourdes School of Mandaluyong has become a landmark. Countless Lourdesians have graduated. They carry the Franciscan spirit. They show this through service and commitment to the Gospel. The school’s motto Pax et Bonum Peace and All Good reflects this spirit.