It was begun in 1719 by four Filipino girls, who gave themselves
exclusively to the service of God, and that of the Virgin of Carmel. In
1735 the beaterio was given form at the petition of the Recollect
provincial, Fray Andres de San Fulgencio. The beatas were permitted
to take the habit as manteletas of the discalced Augustinians. Their
number was not to exceed twelve, and the institution was to remain
subject to the vice-patron. In 1754, a measure was started as to
whether the beatas ought to pay tribute or not, and the custom
which favors the negative was ordered to be followed. They live in
community without any vow. Each year they nominate one prioress. They
are sustained by alms and by their own work. The priorate of San
Sebastian contributes 100 cavans of palay, and 300 pesos annually,
because the beatas sew the scapularies of Carmel, wash the clothes of
the Church, and of the religious resident therein; and the convent of
Manila 200 cavans and 300 pesos more for the washing of the clothes
of the sacristy and of the religious. Orphan girls are received and
are taught reading, writing, the Christian doctrine, sewing, etc. For
the very little girls the beaterio receives what their relatives care
to give. Those who can work pay nothing if they work; but if they do
not work they pay three or four pesos per month according to their
circumstances. Some Spanish women also enter for the [religious]
exercises. At present this beaterio has 12 beatas, 24 larger girls
who are being educated, 16 smaller ones, and one little girl boarder,
with some other widows and married women who also live in this retreat.