Lorenzo Ruiz Academy celebrated its 80th anniversary at the Manila Hotel on Jan. 25, 2026, marking the milestone with the announcement that it ranked first among 53 private schools in Metro Manila in the recent National Achievement Test.
The event, themed “Inherit Gratitude and Set Sail for a Glorious Future,” drew about 400 teachers, students, alumni and leaders from the Filipino Chinese community.
Formerly known as Crusader’s Academy, the institution used the occasion to honor its history while highlighting its current academic standing following the 2024–2025 school year results.
Lorenzo Ruiz Academy director Fr. Jerome Wu credited the school’s founders and predecessors for the achievement. He thanked the Filipino Chinese community for its sustained support and described the top ranking as a surprise gift and a source of significant pride for the community.
Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) vice president and culture and education committee supervisor Co Kin Hung lauded the academy for its performance.
Co said Filipino Chinese education is a foundation for community development and identified teacher training as a critical focus for future growth.
Co pledged to advocate for higher basic salaries and improved welfare for Filipino Chinese teachers. He called on other Filipino Chinese associations to collaborate with the FFCCCII to support educational initiatives and investments.
Philippine Chinese Education Research Center (PCERC) chairman Huang Duan Ming attributed the school’s top NAT finish to the combined efforts of faculty, students and leadership.
He said the academy’s investment in advanced instructional equipment and software, coupled with faculty dedication, provides a model for other schools in the region.
FFCCCII honorary president and alumnus Angel Ngu and Alumni Association president Henry Liao also addressed the gathering.
Both speakers expressed pride in the faculty’s recent successes and encouraged the school community to maintain its momentum toward future academic goals.
