The beginning

The Student Catholic Action was founded in 1936, since then it has undergone a gradual process of development and expansion. Evolving from a loosely formed city-wide association in the early years it has established itself as a well knit organization with SCA Units in practically all educational institutions in the Archdiocese of Manila.

Demonstrating adaptability as one of its main assets, SCA first concerned itself with the problem of education in the state university. It was here that the first unit was formed by Columban Father Edward J. McCarthy in 1936 at the University of the Philippines-Manila.

Formally approved on April 12, 1936 by His Grace, Archbishop Michael O’ Doherty, SCA concentrated its efforts during the remaining pre-war years on the organization of religion classes in non-sectarian schools with special student Masses in Sta. Cruz Church. In addition, the Catholic youth of Manila were alerted to the problems of their environment through annual rallies and regular convocations.