Polytechnic University of the Philippines

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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.

After discovering the story of Polytechnic University of the Philippines in Manila, you may wonder how to explore even more of what this vibrant destination has to offer. Explory makes it simple: our digital guide gives you instant access to the city’s culture, history, and unique atmosphere. With our interactive city guide, you can uncover the background of Manila while following engaging routes designed for curious travelers. Whether you’re on a short trip or staying longer, Explory transforms your visit into a personalized city tour that connects stories with places in an intuitive way. Explory is more than just an ordinary travel tool – it is your companion for deeper exploration of Manila. Each guide combines expert storytelling with easy navigation, allowing you to discover well-known highlights and hidden gems that most visitors overlook. With the city guide, you can plan your route across landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural spots, all enriched by immersive audio storytelling. Our audio guide brings the atmosphere of Manila directly to your ears, making each step of your journey more meaningful. Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, history, or everyday culture, Explory helps you connect with the spirit of Manila. The carefully curated guide highlights what makes this city special, while the interactive city tour lets you explore on your own terms. Thanks to our focus on exploration and unique hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a travel experience that goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. Explory turns every visit into a memorable adventure where stories and places come alive. Download the Explory App now to continue your journey beyond Manila. Inside the app, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories waiting for you. Whether you are searching for a smart audio guide, planning your next city tour, or simply looking for inspiration through a rich guide, Explory is your key to exploring the world differently. Start today and unlock the full potential of Manila with Explory – your ultimate travel companion.

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