Here at the Manuel L. Quezon University School of Law stands a testament to a great man’s vision. Manuel L. Quezon University’s story starts with humble beginnings. It embodies the ideals of its namesake.
Manuel L. Quezon University was founded on November 1 1947. Eighteen professors and six co-founders started the MLQU School of Law. They trained 643 students in law. The school was at the corner of Mendiola and Legarda Streets. Justice Jose Benedicto JBL Reyes and Senator Lorenzo M. Tanada Sr. were among the founders. Dr. Leoncio B. Monzon also co-founded the university.
Manuel L. Quezon University produced its first graduates the following year. They achieved a 97.5% passing rate in the Bar Examinations. The following year, the university exceeded this record. It achieved a 100% passing average. Three graduates made it to the Top Ten.
The law school moved to R. Hidalgo St. Additional academic units were established there. These included the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Education. The School of Commerce and Business Administration was also founded. Engineering, Architecture and Graduate Studies followed. The Law school became the Manuel L. Quezon Educational Institution. The institution acquired University status in 1958.
Later, the Schools of Criminology and Secretarial Education were added. These were separated from Arts and Sciences and Commerce respectively. The School of Information Technology is the most recent addition.
Manuel L. Quezon University now has two campuses. Monzon Hall is at 916 R. Hidalgo Street in Quiapo. The Arlegui Compound on Arlegui St. houses the Basic Education Department. The Justice Arsenio P. Dizon Research Center stands adjacent to Monzon Hall.
In August 2014, Jose Acuzar acquired ownership of Manuel L. Quezon University. He is the chairman of New San Jose Builders Inc. In 2015, the School for Professional Advancement and Continuing Education SPACE opened. It is located inside the Victoria Sports Tower Condominium. This signaled the university’s entry into Quezon City.
On August 19 2016, the university officially moved to Quezon City. The event was dubbed Manuel is Home in Quezon City. Two more locations were planned for Timog Avenue and the former Bureau of Research and Standards site.
Manuel L. Quezon University has produced many notable alumni. Blas F. Ople was a former Senate President. Wigberto Tanada was a Senator. Alberto Romulo was a Senator and Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Roberto A. Abad and Isagani Cruz served as Supreme Court Associate Justices. Jose Melo chaired the Commission on Elections. These individuals exemplify the university’s commitment.
The university’s motto is Pro Patria et Jure. This translates to For Country and Law. Manuel L. Quezon University is committed to service. It values the supremacy of the law. The university promotes the search for truth. It encourages the understanding of human rights. It emphasizes the wise use of freedom. Academic excellence and Christian values are also prioritized.
Manuel L. Quezon University continues to inspire. It empowers ambitious students. It equips them to serve Philippine society. The university remains dedicated to its founding principles. It strives to produce nationalistic and globally competent professionals. They are committed to selfless service. Manuel L. Quezon University’s legacy lives on.