The Ateneo de Zamboanga University began in 1912 as "Escuela Catolica", a parochial school run by Spanish Jesuits at the old site of the Immaculate Conception Church across from the Sunken Garden. Manuel M. Sauras was the first director and served in that capacity up to 1926. Escuela Catolica served as the parochial school of the Immaculada Concepcion Parish headed by Miguel Saderra Mata. Classes were held on the ground floor of the rectory of the parish, which was adjacent to Plaza Pershing. While the curriculum was similar to that of the public elementary school, the Spanish Jesuits emphasized religious teaching alongside quality education. Catholic education later became a factor in the decision of the Jesuits to open a school that was empowered to issue the "titulo oficial" upon completion of studies.