Founded on September 10 1954 St. Peter the Apostle Parish stands proudly in Paco Manila. This parish wasn’t just built it was established. It was a beacon for the Chinese-Filipino community. A place of worship and community.
Father Vincent Liu a priest from New York arrived. He became the parish priest. He had a vision. He wanted a school. A school that would offer a Catholic education. It would also teach in Chinese. This was crucial for the community’s heritage.
The school St. Peter the Apostle School or SPAS opened in 1976. It started small. Just one nursery class. Forty eager pupils filled the social hall of the wooden parish house. It was a humble beginning. The school’s growth is intertwined with the parish’s story.
Growth was rapid. Government recognition came quickly. New buildings rose. His Eminence Jaime L. Cardinal Sin and Bishop Juan B. Velasco played key roles. They blessed the cornerstone and the new school building. The school expanded through several phases. A fourth floor a gymnasium even an annex for the preschool department were added.
In 1990 a devastating earthquake struck Metro Manila. St. Peter the Apostle School was damaged. The community rallied. They rebuilt making the school safer for its growing number of students.
The school’s 20th anniversary in 1997 was a milestone. A new five-story high school building was inaugurated. It was named after Bishop Juan B. Velasco. This was a fitting tribute to his support.
Over the years the leadership of St. Peter the Apostle School changed hands. From priests to the Missionary Sisters of Providence to the Lorenzo Ruiz Mission Society. Each leader contributed to the school’s development. They improved facilities added innovative programs and ensured the school thrived.
Today St. Peter the Apostle Parish remains a vital part of the community. Its history is reflected in the school’s success. It’s a place of faith education and community spirit. A place where generations of Filipinos have learned and worshipped. It stands as a testament to the dedication of those who built and nurtured it.