St. Paul University QC marks 80 years of faith and service

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Eight decades after seven pioneer Sisters transformed a war-damaged novitiate into a place of learning and hope, St. Paul University Quezon City (SPUQC) commemorated its 80th Foundation Anniversary on July 7, 2026.

Managed by the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres (SPC) Congregation, Philippine Province, and a member-school of the St. Paul University System, the University marked this historic milestone under the theme, “Rooted in Faith, Lifted by Hope and Empowered by Love.” 

The day-long observance began with a Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Msgr. Pedro Gerardo O. Santos, together with 21 concelebrating priests, at the Minor Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. 

Sr. Lilia Thérèse Tolentino, SPC, University President, led the SPUQC Community in welcoming members of the Provincial Council headed by Sr. Emily Louise del Castillo, SPC, the SPUQC Board of Trustees, alumni, parents, partners from government and private sectors, SPC Sisters from various institutions, sisters from other religious congregations, business partners, benefactors and friends.

Joining them were students from the Basic and Higher Education departments, current and former faculty members and employees, reflecting the strong sense of community and family spirit that have sustained SPUQC throughout its history. 

Adding vibrancy to the anniversary observance were the Dance Festival, “Walungpung Taon ng Biyaya at Pasasalamat” and the concert “Children of Hope” performed by the SPUQC Children’s Choir. These presentations showcased the institution’s rich heritage and enduring mission of forming individuals committed to faith, service, and excellence. 

SPUQC traces its beginnings to July 7, 1946, when seven pioneer Sisters opened the doors of a school rebuilt through faith, determination, and courageous vision. Reflecting on this remarkable journey, Sr. Lilia Thérèse Tolentino, SPC, shared in her opening message:

“In 1946, from the rubble of a war-damaged novitiate, seven pioneer Sisters opened the doors of what would become St. Paul University Quezon City, welcoming 150 students into a school they had literally rebuilt with faith, tranquil daring, and determination. Eighty years later, that school is a fully accredited university with graduate programs, international partnerships, and a student inward and outward mobility program. That is not simply institutional history. That is faith lived and made visible across generations.” 

Over eight decades, St. Paul University Quezon City has remained steadfast amid changing times, continuing to proclaim the Good News and fulfill its mission of forming and empowering Paulinians to make a positive difference in the Church and society.

Guided by its enduring motto, “Caritas Christi Urget Nos” (May the Love of Christ Impel Us), the University remains committed to nurturing future generations of leaders, innovators and servant-hearted professionals. 

As it embarks on its next chapter, SPUQC looks to the future with renewed purpose—building on its rich legacy while embracing new opportunities to transform lives through quality education, faith formation, and compassionate service for generations to come. — Monina Bello 

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