“For Country and Law” rings true here at Manuel L. Quezon University Diliman Campus. This is a place dedicated to education and named after a great leader. Let’s explore the story of MLQU.
Manuel L. Quezon University stands as a testament to Philippine education. It began in 1947. A group of professors established the MLQU School of Law. They started training 643 students. The location was on Mendiola and Legarda Streets.
The school quickly gained recognition. In the Bar Examinations of 1948, MLQU achieved a 97.5% passing rate. The following year, they hit 100%. Three graduates even made it to the Top Ten.
Soon, expansion became necessary. The law school moved to R. Hidalgo Street. Other academic units were added. These included Arts and Sciences, Education, Commerce and Business Administration, Engineering, Architecture, and Graduate Studies. It was then known as Manuel L. Quezon Educational Institution. University status was granted in 1958.
More schools were created later. Criminology, Architecture, and Secretarial Education became separate entities. The School of Information Technology joined more recently.
MLQU once had two campuses. One was Monzon Hall in Quiapo. The other was the Arlegui Compound. The Basic Education Department was located there. A Research Center named after Justice Arsenio P. Dizon was built near Monzon Hall.
A significant change occurred in 2014. Jose Acuzar acquired ownership of the university. In 2015, the School for Professional Advancement and Continuing Education SPACE opened. It was located inside the Victoria Sports Tower Condominium. This marked MLQU’s presence in Quezon City.
August 19, 2016, was a special day. MLQU officially moved to Victoria Sports Tower. The theme was “Manuel is Home in Quezon City”. Additional locations were planned. These were on Timog Avenue and the former Bureau of Research and Standards site. The goal was to offer more courses.
MLQU boasts many notable alumni. Blas F. Ople served as Senate President. Wigberto Tañada was a Senator. Alberto Romulo became a Senator, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and Executive Secretary. Roberto A. Abad became a Supreme Court Associate Justice. Isagani Cruz also served as a Supreme Court Associate Justice.
The Manuel L. Quezon University continues its legacy today. It is located on the 2nd Floor of Victoria Sports Towers. It stands as a non-sectarian and co-educational institution. It is dedicated to providing quality education. MLQU remains a vital part of Quezon City’s academic landscape.
Consider the university’s motto. “Pro Patria et Jure” means “For Country and Law”. This guiding principle shapes the education provided here. It inspires students to serve their nation. The colors maroon and white represent the spirit of MLQU. Remember Manuel L. Quezon University, a beacon of learning.