Mariano F. Jhocson Sr. founded Colegio Filipino on August 1, 1900, Jhocson Residence in Palma street, Quiapo, Manila. Only a handful of students at that time were enrolled in the fledgling school and they were in the elementary and secondary levels. Mariano Sr. served as the college director, instructor, and janitor. He began business courses in bookkeeping and accounting. This prompted a name change as it became known as Colegio Mercantil, awarding the diploma of Perito Mercantil. A short time later, Jhocson Sr. collaborated with attorneys Simeon C. Lacson and Ricardo C. Lacson and established the Philippine Law School. From Colegio Mercantil, the Board of Trustees changed the name of the institution to National Academy in 1916. Due to continuous growth of the Academy, liberal arts courses were offered.