First University in Manila: Universidad de San Ignacio
The first college and university in Manila was the Universidad de San Ignacio. The Jesuits established the school as a seminary in 1590, known as the Colegio de Manila. The school was formally in 1595.
In 1621, the college was authorized by Pope Gregory XV to confer degrees in theology and the arts. This was confirmed by King Philip IV in 1623, making the college a Royal and Pontifical University.
In 1768, the Jesuit Order was kicked out of all Spanish colonies. As a result, the Universidad de San Ignacio, the first European-style educational institution in Manila and one of the first in Asia, was closed.
The Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila stands on its location today.
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