How about a step back in time to explore the origins of Manila Adventist College? It stands proudly on the corner of Donada and San Juan Streets in Pasay City. This college has a rich history intertwined with the development of medical services and education in the Philippines.
Manila Adventist College started as a dispensary in 1927. American missionary Dr. Horace Hall spearheaded this initiative in Malate, Manila. The dispensary quickly evolved into a small hospital. Later a new 3-storey building emerged and was named Manila Sanitarium and Hospital. It soon gained a reputation for excellent nursing care and a Christian atmosphere. People also appreciated its clean environment and nutritious vegetarian food. Hydrotherapy treatments and patient education on healthy living were also offered.
From 1930 to 1959, Manila Sanitarium and Hospital offered a three-year nursing program. It was later transferred to Philippine Union College in 1967 now Adventist University of the Philippines. In 1940, a new four-storey hospital building was constructed at its present location.
During World War II, the Japanese occupied the hospital. They used it as a Navy Hospital. In 1945, Allied Forces regained control. The Japanese military detonated a bomb. This bomb caused extensive damage to the hospital. Rehabilitation began in 1946. The hospital officially reopened on March 3, 1949.
Expansion continued. In 1954, the first College of Medical Technology in the Philippines opened here. This program was later endorsed to Philippine Union College. The medical residency training program started in 1955.
The 1990s brought significant changes. The hospital incorporated and established a college. It was officially named Manila Sanitarium & Hospital and School of Medical Arts or SMA. In 1993, SMA offered vocational and allied health courses. These included Radiologic Technology, Midwifery, and Physical Therapy Technician programs.
In 2002, the institution became Manila Adventist Medical Center and School of Medical Arts. The name changed but the mission remained the same. It was dedicated to training competent healthcare providers.
In 2007, another name change occurred. The institution officially became Manila Adventist College. This allowed the college to offer courses beyond allied medical professions. These included Accountancy and Business Administration programs.
Manila Adventist College has grown significantly. It now includes the College of Allied Health, the College of Business, and the College of Nursing. The college offers baccalaureate degrees in accountancy, business administration, midwifery, nursing, physical therapy, and radiologic technology.
In 2015, Manila Adventist College broke ground on a new seven-storey building. This facility includes classrooms, offices, and a gymnasium. It aimed to improve the learning environment for students and faculty.
Today, Manila Adventist College continues to provide quality Christian education. It prepares students for successful careers. It also upholds its commitment to service and healthful living. The college maintains a family-oriented environment. It has well-trained faculty and staff. It is a home away from home for many students. It stands as a testament to its enduring legacy of education and healthcare in the Philippines.