About Saint Philomene of Alcala High School

Saint Philomene of Alcala Inc., a non-stock, non-profit Catholic institution located in Alcala, Cagayan Valley, Philippines, has been a beacon of trust and excellence for over 50 years. Rooted in strong Catholic values, the school is committed to delivering meaningful, high-quality education that equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in life. With a particular emphasis on scholarship programs, Saint Philomene ensures that every deserving student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of financial circumstances. Through a nurturing and value-driven environment, the school fosters the growth of compassionate and capable individuals who positively impact their communities.

 

The foundation of Saint Philomene of Alcala was laid on August 25, 1950, by its visionary founders: Mr. Rogelio Ponce, Atty. Vicente Diaz Calvo, and Mr. Arturo Antonio. Originally named Saint Philomene Academy, the school was established in honor of the town's patron saint, Saint Philomene.The school’s journey began on a 4-hectare lot generously donated by Mr. Rogelio Ponce, demonstrating his deep commitment to providing a solid foundation for the institution.

 

By 1951, a permit from the Department of Education allowed the school to offer a Complete Academic Secondary Course for both boys and girls. Under the leadership of Mr. Rogelio Ponce as Director and Mr. Arturo Antonio as Principal, the school’s first faculty members included Miss Dolores Ponce, Miss Trinidad Calvo, Miss Leonila Cuade, Mr. Roque Calvo, Miss Estafania Formoso, and Mr. Benjamin de Leon as the Registrar.In 1953, the school received its first Government Recognition, recommended by Manuel L. Carreon, Director of Private Schools, and signed by Secretary of Education Cecilio Putong. The institution was also registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), with amendments made in 1981.The first graduating batch in 1953 consisted of 10 boys and 4 girls, marking the beginning of a legacy.

Over the decades, the school has proudly produced countless graduates who have excelled in their respective fields, making significant contributions to education, business, and industry.A Legacy of Service and ExcellenceFor more than half a century, Saint Philomene Academy has prepared students to meet the challenges of an increasingly competitive world. Through its competent and dedicated faculty, relevant curricula, competitive athletic activities, spiritual endeavors, community extension services, and a warm family atmosphere, the school continues to mold students into agents of positive change.

 

In 2009, the school was officially renamed Saint Philomene of Alcala, Inc., following its registration with the SEC under Company Registration Number CN 200902928.In line with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9155 (Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001) and Republic Act No. 10533 (Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013), the institution was granted a provisional permit to operate a Senior High School program starting the 2016-2017 academic year.

 

By 2018, the school secured Government Permit No. s003, s.2018, allowing it to continue operating its Senior High School program for the 2019-2020 academic year and beyond.