Beneath the Quezon City sun stands the Philippine Women’s University. It is more than just a school. It represents a century of women’s empowerment and education.
The Philippine Women’s University began as the Philippine Women’s College in 1919. A group of Filipino women founded it during the American colonial era. Clara Aragon and Francisca Tirona Benitez were among the founders. They envisioned a place where Filipinas could prepare for leadership. José Abad Santos helped them draft the university’s constitution.
Initially, 190 students enrolled. The college soon offered primary and secondary education. Later, programs in education, commerce, and philosophy were added. In 1932, the American colonial government granted university status. The Philippine Women’s College became the Philippine Women’s University. It was the first women’s university in Asia founded by Asians.
Before World War II, the Philippine Women’s University expanded its programs. Home Economics, Music, Fine Arts and Social Work were introduced. Nutrition, Pharmacy, and Business courses were also established. Civic training became part of the curriculum in 1938. These programs aimed to train women for civic responsibility.
Families across the Philippines sent their daughters to the Philippine Women’s University. Most higher education institutions at that time were for men only. Other schools for women were often run by Catholic religious orders. The Philippine Women’s University offered a more Americanized curriculum.
During World War II, the Philippine Women’s University faced challenges. Classes were intermittent due to the Japanese occupation. The campus became a hospital called “Pagamutan ng Maynila”. The Battle of Manila in 1945 caused major damage. The school reopened a few months before Philippine independence in 1946.
The Jose Abad Santos Memorial School or JASMS was founded. It offered elementary and secondary education. JASMS has campuses in Manila and Quezon City. Now it is called PWU JASMS.
The Philippine Women’s University became co-educational in the 1970s. Men were admitted as students. In 1993, Jose Conrado Benitez became the first male president.
In 2011, the Philippine Women’s University had issues with STI. A joint venture aimed to infuse capital. The deal soured, leading to a legal battle. In 2016, an amicable settlement was reached. STI stepped down from involvement with the Philippine Women’s University.
Many notable alumni have passed through the halls of the Philippine Women’s University. These include actor Joseph Estrada and First Lady Imelda Marcos. Singer Boy Abunda and artist Whilce Portacio also attended. These alumni reflect the diverse impact of the university.
Today, the Philippine Women’s University continues its legacy. It is a leading educational institution. It is committed to transformative education. The Philippine Women’s University treasures excellence, heritage and community service. Its core values include academic excellence and personal integrity. The PWU Hymn reminds everyone of love of country, God, and home. The Philippine Women’s University remains a beacon of learning.