University of Santo Tomas

University of Santo Tomas
Name	University of Santo Tomas
Motto	Veritas in Caritate
Established	1611
Founder	Miguel de Benavides
Type	Private, Research, Catholic
Religious affiliation	Dominican
Chancellor	Gerard Francisco Timoner III
Rector	Richard G. Ang
Location	Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines
Campus	Urban, 21.5 hectares

University of Santo Tomas. Founded in 1611 under the patronage of Saint Thomas Aquinas, it is the oldest extant university in Asia and holds the Pontifical title granted by Pope Leo XIII. Operated by the Order of Preachers, the university has played a central role in the intellectual and political history of the Philippines, from the Spanish colonial period through the American colonial era and into contemporary times. Its sprawling main campus in Sampaloc is renowned for its heritage architecture and serves as a premier center for education, research, and culture.

History

The university traces its origins to the 1611 bequest of Miguel de Benavides, the third Archbishop of Manila, who provided funds for the establishment of a Colegio de Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Rosario. This institution was renamed in honor of Saint Thomas Aquinas and was elevated to university status by Pope Innocent X in 1645. During the British occupation of Manila, its campus was used as a military headquarters. It later became a critical site during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, when it was converted into the Santo Tomas Internment Camp, imprisoning thousands of Allied civilians until its liberation by the United States Army and Philippine Commonwealth troops in the 1945 Battle of Manila. Throughout the 20th century, it was a hotbed of student activism, particularly during the First Quarter Storm and the subsequent martial law period.

Campus

The university's main campus is located along España Boulevard in Sampaloc. Its most iconic structure is the UST Main Building, a pre-war Neoclassical edifice declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines. The campus also features the Arch of the Centuries, the Santísimo Rosario Parish, and the UST Museum of Arts and Sciences. Modern facilities include the Alfredo M. Velayo College of Accountancy building, the Beato Angelico Building, and the Quadricentennial Pavilion. The campus grounds host the annual Paskuhan Christmas festival and the traditional Thomasian Welcome Walk.

Academics

The university is organized into several faculties and colleges, including the Faculty of Civil Law, the College of Science, and the Conservatory of Music. It is particularly noted for its programs in Medicine, Law, Engineering, and Architecture, with its Faculty of Medicine and Surgery being the first of its kind in the country. It operates the UST Hospital as its primary teaching facility. The institution is a member of the ASEAN University Network and has been awarded autonomous status by the Commission on Higher Education. It publishes several academic journals, such as the Acta Manilana and the Philippine Scientific Journal.

Administration and organization

The university is governed by the Dominican Order of the Catholic Church, with the Master of the Order of Preachers serving as its Grand Chancellor. The local administration is headed by the Rector, currently Richard G. Ang, who is assisted by Vice-Rectors for academic and administrative affairs. Its academic governance follows a structure of faculties and colleges led by deans and regents. The University of Santo Tomas Central Student Council represents the student body, while the UST Alumni Association manages engagements with graduates. The institution is a founding member of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

Notable alumni and faculty

The university's alumni, known as Thomasians, include national heroes such as José Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, and Apolinario Mabini. It counts among its graduates four Presidents of the Philippines: Manuel L. Quezon, Sergio Osmeña, José P. Laurel, and Diosdado Macapagal. Other distinguished figures are Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr., scientist Fe del Mundo, and artist Botong Francisco. Notable faculty have included philosopher Rolando Gripaldo, historian Fr. Fidel Villarroel, and theologian Fr. Fausto Gómez.

In popular culture

The university's iconic architecture and historical significance have made it a frequent filming location. Its UST Main Building and Arch of the Centuries have been featured in films like Dekada '70 and television series such as Got to Believe. The campus serves as a setting in literary works, including novels by F. Sionil José. The annual Paskuhan celebration is often depicted in media as a quintessential Filipino Christmas event. The university is also referenced in songs by artists like Rivermaya and has been the subject of documentaries by GMA Network and the ABS-CBN News Channel.

Category:Universities and colleges in Manila Category:Dominican universities Category:Educational institutions established in 1611