Sampaloc, Manila

University of Santo Tomas

A Beacon of Faith-Based Education and Historical Legacy

PUBLISHED January 15, 2023

PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

In the heart of Sampaloc, Manila, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) stands as a beacon of Catholic education, embodying a rich history shaped by unwavering faith, esteemed scholars, and the profound influence of its patron saints. With a commitment to service and a legacy marked by papal visits, UST remains a formidable institution, leaving an enduring imprint on the landscape of faith-based education in the Philippines.

Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into University of Santo Tomas with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!

Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to University of Santo Tomas. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.

Located in the vibrant district of Sampaloc, Manila, the University of Santo Tomas (UST), officially known as the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, Manila, is a prestigious private Catholic research university. Established on April 28, 1611, UST’s origins trace back to Spanish friar Miguel de Benavides. Arriving in the Philippines with the first Dominican mission in 1587, Benavides later became the third Archbishop of Manila in 1601. Upon his death on July 26, 1605, he bequeathed his library and personal property worth ₱1,500 to establish an institution of higher learning. His testament, witnessed by Dominican priests Domingo de Nieva and Bernardo de Santa Catalina, paved the way for the university’s founding.

Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.

Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.

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In 1606, Bishop Diego de Soria communicated the plans for the new college to King Philip III of Spain, requesting authorization to grant degrees akin to those of the Colegio de Santo Tomas in Avila, Spain. The request was granted, and by April 28, 1611, the university was officially founded. Initially named the College of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, it was renamed Colegio de Santo Tomas in 1619 in honor of St. Thomas Aquinas. On November 20, 1645, Pope Innocent X issued the papal bull In Supereminenti, elevating the college to university status and placing it under papal authority.

Royal and Pontifical Status

UST’s historical significance is further highlighted by its esteemed titles and honors. In 1785, King Charles III of Spain granted UST the title of “Royal,” recognizing its academic and cultural importance. Later, in 1902, Pope Leo XIII elevated UST to the status of a pontifical university, underscoring its close relationship with the Catholic Church. Further affirming its prominence, Pope Pius XII bestowed upon UST the title of “The Catholic University of the Philippines” in 1947.

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Impact of World War II

During World War II, UST was repurposed by the Imperial Japanese forces as an internment camp for enemy aliens, predominantly Americans residing in the Philippines. The Japanese secret police, known as Kenpeitai, transformed the original Intramuros campus into a garrison and torture chamber, ultimately destroying it by fire in 1944.

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Unique Affiliation with the Order of Preachers

UST’s foundation by the Order of Preachers (OP), also known as the Dominicans, distinguishes it from many other educational institutions. This affiliation with the Dominicans has been a defining element of the university’s identity, positioning it as one of the few universities globally under the stewardship of this religious order. The Order of Preachers has played a crucial role in shaping the university’s mission and values, deeply integrating its Catholic faith into the educational experience.

ABOVE: The Arch of the Centuries at UST in Manila, built in 1680, stands as a historic symbol of tradition and new beginnings for Thomasians.

Pioneering Schools

The university is home to the first and oldest engineering, law, medical, and pharmacy schools in the Philippines. These pioneering programs reflect UST’s long-standing commitment to academic excellence and its significant role in the development of higher education in the country.

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A Major Campus and Cultural Heritage

UST’s main campus, the largest university in Manila, is located on España Boulevard in the Sampaloc district. Spanning nearly 21.5 hectares, it occupies a nearly perfect square and is a central part of the University Belt. The campus moved to its current location in 1927, as the Dominicans found the Intramuros campus inadequate for the growing student population. The architectural style of the campus buildings varies significantly, reflecting different construction periods. Early structures were designed by university priests and professors and incorporate styles ranging from Renaissance Revival and Art Deco to Bauhaus and International Style. Notable buildings include the Beato Angelico Building and the Thomas Aquinas Research Complex, which feature elements inspired by the iconic UST Main Building. Additionally, seven buildings are named after beatified Dominicans and Dominican saints, further reflecting the university’s religious heritage.

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Iconic Campus Features

The central axis of UST’s campus is marked by several iconic structures, including the Arch of the Centuries, Plaza Benavides, Benavides Monument, Main Building, Quadricentennial Square, and the Miguel de Benavides Library. The Arch of the Centuries, originally erected around 1680 at the Intramuros campus, was relocated to its current site in 1954. The Main Building, designed by priest and engineer Roque Ruaño, was constructed from 1924 to 1927 and served as Kilometer Zero of Manila. The Central Seminary, built in 1933 and designed by Fernando Ocampo in the Art Deco style, houses the Santísimo Rosario Parish and the Ecclesiastical Faculties. Established in 1932, the Botanical Garden continues to support research into Philippine flora and medicinal plants. Notably, the Arch of the Centuries features tributes to two of the university’s most distinguished alumni, José Rizal and Manuel L. Quezon. Their likenesses are displayed on the pillars of the arch, honoring their significant contributions to the Philippines.