Dreams of Filipina empowerment sparked here at the Philippine Women’s University. Picture this university, not just as a place of learning, but as a testament to the enduring spirit of women in Asia.
In 1919, a group of visionary Filipina women founded the Philippine Women’s College. These women were Clara Aragon, Concepcion Aragon, Francisca Tirona Benitez, Paz Marquez Benitez, Carolina Ocampo Palma, Mercedes Rivera, and Socorro Marquez Zaballero. They aimed to equip women for service and leadership. Lawyer José Abad Santos helped them too. He drafted the university’s constitution and by-laws.
Initially, the Philippine Women’s College welcomed 190 students. It focused on primary and secondary education. Later, it expanded to include education, commerce, and philosophy. By 1922, it achieved another milestone. The Philippine Women’s College became the first private educational institution with a student council.
The American colonial government recognized its significance. In 1932, it granted university status. The institution was then renamed the Philippine Women’s University. This marked a historic moment. It became the first university for women in Asia founded by Asians.
Before World War II, the Philippine Women’s University continued to evolve. It introduced programs like Home Economics, Music and Fine Arts, Social Work, Nutrition, Pharmacy, and Business. A course in Social Civic training was added in 1938. These programs aimed to cultivate civic responsibility among Filipinas.
During the Second World War, the Philippine Women’s University faced immense challenges. Classes were often disrupted. The campus transformed into a hospital, called “Pagamutan ng Maynila”. The Battle of Manila in 1945 caused significant damage. But the university persevered. Months before Philippine independence in 1946, it resumed operations.
The Philippine Women’s University also established the Jose Abad Santos Memorial School. It offered elementary and secondary education. Today, it is known as PWU JASMS. It has campuses in Manila and Quezon City.
The Philippine Women’s University took a significant step in the 1970s. It began admitting male students. This made it a co-educational institution. In 1993, José Conrado Benitez became its first male president.
The Philippine Women’s University faced challenges in 2011. It entered a joint venture with STI. A legal battle ensued in 2014. However, the parties reached an amicable settlement in 2016.
The Philippine Women’s University boasts a remarkable list of alumni. They include national artists, politicians, actors, and singers. Imelda Marcos, former First Lady is also an alumna.
Today, the Philippine Women’s University continues its legacy. It embraces inclusion and cultural diversity. It offers transformative education. It also treasures excellence, spirituality, family values, heritage, community service, and citizenship.
Remember the Philippine Women’s University. It stands as a beacon of women’s empowerment. Its history is a tapestry woven with resilience, vision, and a deep commitment to shaping future generations.