Torres High School was founded in 1925 by Mr. James T. Burns using an old, dilapidated building along Legarda Street, Manila. It was then named Legarda High School. The first enrollees were a group of students who were refused admission in the other three existing public high schools at that time.

In 1926, the school moved to the Syquia Building at the foot of the Pritil bridge along Juan Luna Street, and was renamed Manila West High School. In March 1928, the school turned out its first batch of graduates and saw the birth of various school clubs and organizations.

In 1930, the names of the four Manila high schools were named after the first four Filipino jurists of the Supreme Court by resolution of the Municipal Board. For the second time, the school was renamed: from Manila West to Torres High School, after Florentino Torres, one of the foremost Filipino justices. Mr. Marcelino Bautista was appointed as the principal, the first Filipino principal of the school.

It was in January 1937, under Mr. Ricardo Castro’s administration, when the school formally occupied the Constabulary Barracks in Gagalangin where it is presently situated. During the World War II years, 1941-45, the schools were closed and were converted into garrisons, and records were all destroyed.

It was not until July 16, 1945 that the school was reopened with Mr. Pablo Reyes as principal. The first 30 post-war graduates received their diplomas on November 24, 1945. On October 16, 1953, Torres High School celebrated its first Foundation Day under Mr. Cesario Bandong.

During the ensuing years, the school’s enrollment grew tremendously, not only because of population growth, but also because of its good reputation among its peers nationwide. It had great achievements in academics, athletics and journalism. With dynamic administrators committed to continual improvement of learning, Torres High School has continued to soar high. At present, Dr. Romeo B. Santos, the 22nd principal of a 6,000-strong student body, continues to strive to uphold the school motto, “Walang Uuna sa Torres High.” Torres High School in its 83rd year will always be Number One.