Education in the Philippines has changed dramatically in recent years. What began as a response to the pandemic has now become a lasting option for families who want flexibility, accessibility, and global readiness for their children. For parents of elementary students, the choice can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and the right school, learning can be both effective and enjoyable.
Southville International School and Colleges is one of the institutions that prepared early for this shift. Even before the pandemic, Southville had already been using a learning management system to support students, making the transition from face‑to‑face classes to its Virtual Online Learning and Teaching (VOLT) program smooth and seamless. This foresight positioned Southville as a pioneer in technology‑driven education, and the VOLT program has since been recognized with awards for innovation and excellence.
Financial Consultant Ms. Nicole Suarez‑Miranda, a Southville alumna, recalls how she witnessed the institution’s technology‑driven academic system years back. “Southville have been prepared even before the pandemic,” she shared. Her daughter, Natalia Adrianna, joined Southville in Grade 1 just as VOLT was being fully implemented. Now in Grade 6, Natalia continues to thrive, proving that the system has supported her growth through the crucial years of elementary education. Nicole remembers how her own meetings often coincided with Natalia’s classes, leading them to work and study side by side. Across their little table, she would glance at her daughter, gaining an adorable view of what the new normal meant for families — watching their children learn every second of their school life with them.
For the Mirandas, schooling became a family effort. Mr. Mars Miranda explained, “This set‑up has to involve everyone in the house … from me, my wife, my daughter, and even our helper. It’s letting everyone know what is happening and what you need from each other to survive this kind of situation.” Their story reflects how Southville’s VOLT program not only supports students academically but also strengthens communication, teamwork, and creativity within households.
Stories like Natalia’s highlight the larger shift in Philippine education. Families now see that learning can be accessible, flexible, and globally relevant. Parents still weigh considerations such as curriculum quality, teacher support, socialization opportunities, and technology requirements, but with Southville’s VOLT program, these concerns are addressed through interactive platforms, personalized mentoring, and strong community support.
Elementary schooling in the Philippines is no longer just about adapting to change; it is about preparing children for the future. With the right partner, parents can ensure their children thrive in this new environment. Southville International School and Colleges, through its award‑winning VOLT program, proves that the future of learning can begin right at home — and that a student like Natalia, who started in Grade 1 and is now in Grade 6, can grow, achieve, and love the experience every step of the way.
Relocating to Metro Manila comes with a long list of decisions—and for global families, choosing the right international school is one of the most important. It’s not just about academics. It’s about finding a place where your child feels safe, supported, and inspired to grow. A place that feels like home.
That’s why many expat families are drawn to Alabang, a thriving community in southern Metro Manila. Known for its gated villages, modern condos, international business hubs, and lush green spaces, Alabang offers the perfect balance of comfort, safety, and accessibility. It’s close to top-tier hospitals, lifestyle malls, and—most importantly—some of the best international schools in the country.
One school that consistently stands out is Southville International School and Colleges (SISC). Just 1.5 kilometers from Alabang and a short drive from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Southville offers both convenience and world-class education. Recognized under Republic Act No. 9493 as an institution of international character, Southville has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and holistic student care.
What makes Southville a top choice? For starters, it offers globally recognized programs like the IB Diploma Programme, an American curriculum, and multiple university pathways. Its faculty includes educators with international training and experience, bringing diverse perspectives into every classroom. Students benefit from strong transition programs, inclusive learning support, and a nurturing environment that prioritizes emotional well-being alongside academic growth.
Facilities are modern and thoughtfully designed—tech-enabled classrooms, science labs, performing arts studios, and sports amenities all support a well-rounded student experience. And when it comes to outcomes, Southville’s alumni have gone on to attend top universities around the world.
For families comparing international schools in Manila, the checklist often includes:
Academic excellence and university readiness
Teachers with global experience and cultural sensitivity
A safe, inclusive, and emotionally supportive environment
Active parent engagement and multicultural community events
Proximity to home, airport, and essential services
Southville checks all these boxes—and adds something more: a genuine sense of belonging.
For the Smith Family, who moved from Kuwait to the Philippines, Southville became more than just a school—it became a home.
“As a family that relocated from abroad, we couldn’t be happier with our school choice, Southville International School. The environment is incredibly welcoming and friendly, making the transition smooth for both students and parents. The school maintains high academic standards, ensuring that every child is both challenged and supported. Additionally, the extracurricular offerings are outstanding, featuring robust sports programs such as varsity football, basketball, and volleyball. Overall, it’s been a wonderful experience for our family.”
To make the transition even smoother, Southville’s admissions team offers hands-on support for relocating families. From visa and documentation assistance to housing recommendations and orientation sessions, they’re ready to walk with you every step of the way.
At the end of the day, choosing a school is about more than academics—it’s about finding a place where your child can thrive. With its international programs, strategic location near Alabang, and deep commitment to student success, Southville International School and Colleges is where many global families find their home in Manila.
Ready to explore your options? Visit www.southville.edu.ph and discover what makes Southville a trusted name in international education.
What is the BSN Program at SISC?
It is a four-year baccalaureate program that combines general education, professional nursing theory, and clinical practice. SISC is granted Autonomous Status by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines, offering high levels of accreditation. The BSN program uses an outcomes-based, concept-based model. Students gain competencies through theoretical foundation, hands-on skills training, and transformative personal development.
Why You Should Choose BS Nursing at SISC
In today’s health-care landscape, selecting the right nursing school is more than just choosing a program, it’s about preparing for a high-impact, globally relevant profession. Southville International School and Colleges (SISC) offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out. Below are the reasons why SISC’s BSN is a smart choice for aspiring nurses.
Key Advantages of Choosing SISC BS Nursing
Eligible for the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE)
Prepared for work in hospitals, community health, clinics, and possibly international settings
Capacity for leadership roles (e.g., nurse manager, clinical leader) due to training in teamwork, critical thinking, and management
Lifelong learning attitude: the curriculum fosters continual growth, adaptability, and staying current with global health developments
Suppose you want more than just a degree, a program that equips you with strong clinical competence, excellent licensure exam performance, global readiness, and a heart for compassionate service. In that case, SISC’s BS Nursing program is a compelling choice. It blends high academic standards, quality faculty, meaningful clinical experience, and values-based education.
- Strong Licensure Exam Performance
- Global Readiness and Certification Extras
- Competent and Caring Faculty
- Holistic & Value-Rich Education
- Hands-On Clinical Practice
- Autonomous Institution + High Accreditation
In the competitive landscape of international education in Metro Manila, Southville International School and Colleges (SISC) continues to stand out—especially for families seeking a globally recognized K–12 program rooted in academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and Filipino warmth.
With students from over 20 nationalities, Southville offers a multicultural environment where diversity is celebrated and every learner is supported. The school’s international character is officially recognized under Republic Act No. 9493, and it holds a full six-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)—a mark of global quality and credibility.
Southville’s K–12 curriculum is anchored in the International Baccalaureate (IB) and American education systems, offering flexibility and global relevance. Students are trained not just in academics, but in emotional quotient (EQ)—a core focus that helps them build resilience, empathy, and self-awareness. These qualities are embedded in classroom activities, leadership programs, and peer engagement, ensuring that learners grow holistically.
For sports-minded students, Southville offers varsity programs in basketball, volleyball, football and other sports. These programs foster discipline, teamwork, and school spirit—giving students opportunities to shine both in and out of the classroom.
What truly sets Southville apart is its commitment to helping international students feel at home. Through events like “Adaptation: How to Help Your Child Assimilate in the Philippines,” the school creates space for expat families to share insights, build community, and support one another.
Expat parents consistently praise Southville’s nurturing environment. One parent shared on the International Schools Database that Southville “has outperformed the global average for International Baccalaureate scores” and described the administration as “fantastic.” Another noted, “The school atmosphere is very good. Teachers are very supportive and the curriculum is well-structured for international students.”
One of our parents, Mr. Amit Puri, Vice President of a global Multi-National company, and who moved to the Philippines with his family back in 2016 , also shared his reasons for choosing Southville as an expat in Manila:
“There are several reasons why I chose Southville International School. First, its international credentials and accreditation mean that my child’s qualifications are recognized globally—very helpful if we relocate again or pursue university abroad. Second, the diverse student body and expat-friendly support system make it easier for international families to adjust. Third, I appreciate Southville’s emphasis on technology and innovation—from online grade access to early exposure to robotics and interdisciplinary learning.”
Mr. Puri has since become one of Southville’s most enthusiastic advocates, often being a sounding board in showcasing his trust in Southville’s values and academic standards.
Dr. Avic Suarez, Principal of Southville International School and Colleges, affirms this shared commitment to excellence and community:
“At Southville, we believe that every child—regardless of background—deserves a nurturing environment where they can grow intellectually, emotionally, and socially. We are proud to be a school that not only meets international standards but also fosters a deep sense of belonging and purpose among our students and families.”
Southville’s commitment to the 5Cs—Competence, Character, Commitment to Achieve, Collaboration, and Creativity—is evident in every aspect of school life. Whether through project-based learning, student-led initiatives, or community outreach, learners are empowered to think critically, act ethically, and lead confidently.
For families relocating to Manila or seeking a globally aligned K–12 education, Southville offers a seamless blend of academic rigor, emotional support, and cultural inclusivity. It’s a place where students are not just taught—they’re empowered to thrive.
As the Philippines continues to grow, the demand for high-quality international education has risen significantly. For expatriate families seeking exceptional learning opportunities for their children, the country offers a diverse range of international schools, each distinguished by its curriculum, teaching philosophy, and global outlook. In this guide, we highlight the top international schools in the Philippines for 2025—providing insights to help parents make informed choices about where their children can receive a world-class education.
Read more: Best 10 International Schools in the Philippines 2025