Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Can you imagine a university with a tuition fee of 12 pesos? That’s the story of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, or PUP, right here in Manila. PUP, known for its activism and massive student population, has a history as vibrant as the city itself. Founded in 1904 as the Manila Business School, PUP’s original mission was to train businessmen and women for government and private sectors. The school quickly grew, becoming the Philippine School of Commerce in 1908. It even survived a merger with the Philippine Normal School and the Philippine School of Arts and Trades in 1933. Imagine attending classes in a former military tenement. That was the reality for early PUP students when they moved to the A. Mabini campus, now the main campus. The campus also houses the Ninoy Aquino Library and Learning Resources Center, one of the largest libraries in Southeast Asia. PUP officially became a university in 1978, thanks to Presidential Decree 1341. It adopted the “cluster colleges” setup in 1984, organizing different disciplines into colleges. This period also saw the construction of key buildings like the Main Library, University Canteen, and the Interfaith Chapel. PUP celebrated its centennial in 2004, even creating the world’s largest human rainbow as part of the festivities. In more recent years, PUP has continued to innovate. It became Southeast Asia’s first railway academy in 2007. The university has also faced challenges, like controversies surrounding the purchase of condotel buildings for student housing. Yet, through it all, PUP remains committed to providing affordable education. The Polytechnic University of the Philippines stands as a testament to the power of accessible education. It has educated countless Filipinos who have gone on to make significant contributions to society. As you stand here, before this bustling campus, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of PUP, a beacon of opportunity for generations of students.