Maruxa Pita facts for kids

Maruxa Pita (born March 18, 1930 – died January 19, 2025) was a Spanish missionary and teacher. She is famous for helping to start Saint Pedro Poveda College in Quezon City, Philippines.

Maruxa Pita's Early Life

Maruxa Pita was born in Madrid, Spain, on March 18, 1930. She had three sisters: Carmen, Chita, and Isabel. When she was 17, Maruxa joined the Teresian Association. Her older sister, Chita, was already a member. This association was started by Father Pedro Poveda.

Maruxa Pita's Work in the Philippines

Maruxa Pita arrived in the Philippines in 1959. She came to help set up the Institución Teresiana. This school is now known as Saint Pedro Poveda College in Quezon City.

School Principal and Teacher

Maruxa Pita worked as the school principal from 1965 to 1973. In its early years, the school's pre-school was for both boys and girls. She taught the four children of Ninoy Aquino and Corazon Aquino. Ninoy Aquino was a senator, and Corazon Aquino later became president. Their son, Benigno Aquino III, who also became president, was one of her students.

Promoting Spanish Language and Culture

From 1973 to 1979, Maruxa taught Spanish at the University of Santo Tomas. She also taught at the Spanish Cultural Center from 1975 to 1979. Later, she became the director of the Spanish Cultural Center. She managed all the teaching areas and the Spanish teachers from 1979 to 1993.

In 1993, the Instituto Cervantes of Manila was opened. This new center replaced the Spanish Cultural Center. Maruxa Pita was chosen to be its academic head. It was the first Instituto Cervantes center in Asia.

Helping Children Through Education

In 1995, Maruxa Pita started the Makabata School Foundation in Pasig. This foundation helps children who are less fortunate. It allows them to study for free. The Instituto Cervantes honored her for her work. They recognized her efforts in promoting the Spanish language in the Philippines. They also praised her dedication to educating underprivileged children through her foundation.

Maruxa Pita passed away at St. Luke's Medical Center in Quezon City. She died on January 19, 2025, at the age of 94.

Awards and Recognition

• The Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Award (2011)
• People’s Choice Award (2012)

See also

In Spanish: Maruxa Pita para niños