Year of foundation: 1859
Approx. number of students: 11,700
Period of study: January - May; August - December
MCI partner since: 2007
The City
Manila is the capital of the Philippines and one of the 17 cities and municipalities that make up Metro Manila. It is located on the eastern shores of Manila Bay, in the western side of Luzon. Manila is one of the central hubs of a thriving metropolitan area home to over 19 million people. Manila itself is the second most populous city in the Philippines, with more than 1.6 million inhabitants. Only nearby Quezon City, the country's former capital, is more populous.
Manila's economy is diverse and multifaceted. With its excellent protected harbor, Manila serves as the nation's chief seaport. In addition, it is a major publishing center for the Philippines. Diverse manufactures include chemicals, textiles, clothing, and electronic goods. Watches, iron and steel, leather goods, and shoes are also manufactured within the city. Food and beverages and tobacco products also employ many residents. Additionally, local entrepreneurs continue to process primary commodities for export, including rope, plywood, refined sugar, copra, and coconut oil.
The University
The Ateneo de Manila University is a private university run by the Society of Jesus in the Philippines. Its main campus in Loyola Heights, Quezon City, Metro Manila is home to the university's college and graduate school units, as well as its high school and grade school. Two other campuses, in Rockwell Center and Salcedo Village, both in Makati City, house the university's professional schools of business, law, and government. A fourth facility in the Don Eugenio López, Sr. Medical Complex in Ortigas Center, Pasig City houses its school of medicine and public health. The University's patron saint is Ignatius of Loyola, while María Puríssima is its patroness, as is evident the pontifical name "University of the Immaculate Conception" and in the selection of blue and white as the school's colors. 