Magdalena Smith Villaruz is born in the Philippines. Specific details about her exact birthplace and early childhood environment are currently unknown, but growing up in the Philippines during this era would have significantly shaped her worldview.

While not directly documented in her biography, Magdalena's childhood would have been significantly impacted by World War II and the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. This period would likely have instilled resilience, resourcefulness, and a strong sense of community.

Magdalena likely pursued her primary and secondary education in the post-war Philippines. Information about the specific schools she attended and her academic interests during this period is not publicly available, but these experiences were essential in shaping her intellectual curiosity and preparing her for future endeavors.

While the extent of her formal higher education is not explicitly detailed in readily available sources, it is reasonable to infer that she may have pursued some form of further learning or specialized training, given her later entrepreneurial success. Further research is needed to ascertain details.