University of Santo Tomas

The story of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) is inextricably woven into the tapestry of Philippine history. As the oldest existing university in Asia, its nearly four centuries of existence parallel the shaping of the Filipino nation, from the Spanish Colonial Philippines to the modern republic. More than just an educational institution, UST has served as a silent witness to historical upheavals, a crucible for intellectual development, and a significant bastion of Catholic education in the archipelago. Understanding the history of the University of Santo Tomas provides a unique lens through which to view the evolution of the Philippines itself, its people, its culture, and its aspirations.

Founded by the Dominican Order, UST’s roots trace back to a humble beginning in Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. It predates many universities in the Western Hemisphere, standing as a testament to the early establishment of formal education in the Spanish East Indies. Its journey through the centuries encompasses periods of profound change – the initial imposition of colonial rule, the stirrings of nationalism culminating in the Philippine Revolution, the transition to American sovereignty, the ravages of World War II and the Japanese Occupation, and the challenges and opportunities of the Post-war Philippines. Each era left its mark on the university, shaping its character, curriculum, and the generations of Filipinos it educated. This article will delve into the rich and complex history of the University of Santo Tomas, exploring its foundation, its pivotal role during various historical epochs, its contributions to Philippine intellectual and national life, and its enduring legacy as a premier educational and historical landmark Philippines.

Foundation and the Early Years: A Dominican Vision

The genesis of the University of Santo Tomas lies in the vision of Miguel de Benavides, O.P., the third Archbishop of Manila. A member of the Dominican Order, Archbishop Benavides was deeply committed to the propagation of faith and the intellectual formation of the clergy and Spanish colonists. Upon his death in 1605, he bequeathed his library and personal property to the Order to establish a college. His will stipulated the creation of an institution of higher learning to serve the intellectual and spiritual needs of the burgeoning colony.

The Dominican Order, officially known as the Order of Preachers, took on the responsibility of fulfilling Benavides’ legacy. Drawing upon their long tradition of scholarship and commitment to education in Europe, they founded the Colegio de Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Rosario (College of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary) in 1611. This marked the official birth of what would eventually become the University of Santo Tomas. The college was initially situated in Intramuros, within the confines of the walled city, a strategic location during the early colonial period.

Initially, the institution primarily focused on courses in Arts and Philosophy, aimed at preparing young men for the priesthood or civil service. However, the ambition was always to elevate its status to a university. In 1619, the college received authorization from King Philip III of Spain to confer degrees, a significant step towards university status.

The formal elevation came through an Apostolic Letter, In Supereminenti, issued by Pope Innocent X on November 20, 1645. This papal bull granted the college the status of a university, giving it the authority to confer all academic degrees, from baccalaureate to doctorate. This event solidified its position as a full-fledged university and cemented its claim as the oldest university in Asia. Later, in 1681, King Charles II of Spain granted it the title of “Royal,” acknowledging its royal patronage and importance to the Crown. Further ecclesiastical recognition came in 1785 when Pope Pius VI declared it a “Pontifical University,” a title reinforcing its close ties with the Holy See. These early decrees – the Papal Bull of 1645 and the Royal Decree of 1681 – are foundational to understanding the unique designation of the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas.

The early campus in Intramuros was a modest yet vital center of learning. Life within its walls revolved around religious observance, rigorous academic study, and adherence to Spanish customs and values. The Dominican Order governed every aspect of the university, ensuring that the curriculum aligned with Catholic doctrine and served the interests of the Spanish colonial administration. Subjects like Theology, Philosophy, and Canon Law were central, reflecting the intertwined nature of Church and State during the Spanish Colonial Philippines. Over time, other faculties were established, including the Faculty of Civil Law and the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, to meet the growing needs of the colony.

UST in the Spanish Colonial Era: Shaping Intellectual and Social Elite

For over three centuries, the University of Santo Tomas stood as the pinnacle of Catholic education in the Spanish Colonial Philippines. It was the primary institution for higher learning, accessible primarily to the Spanish elite, criollos, and a limited number of wealthy or privileged indios and mestizos. Its curriculum, heavily influenced by Scholastic philosophy, shaped the intellectual landscape of the colony.

Key faculties established during this period included:

Faculty of Sacred Theology: One of the original faculties, crucial for training priests and theologians.
Faculty of Philosophy: Another foundational faculty, covering logic, metaphysics, and ethics.
Faculty of Canon Law: Established to train legal experts in church law.
Faculty of Civil Law: Introduced in 1734, providing training in Spanish civil law for future lawyers and administrators.
Faculty of Medicine and Surgery: Opened in 1871, initially offering a five-year course. This was a significant development, introducing formal medical training to the Philippines.
Faculty of Pharmacy: Also established in 1871, offering the first formal pharmacy education in the country.

The university played a crucial role in training the colonial bureaucracy and the clergy. Graduates held influential positions in the government, the Church, and various professions. While the focus was on maintaining the colonial order and propagating Catholicism, the intellectual environment, albeit strictly controlled, also provided a space for critical thinking, even if implicitly.

However, the exclusive nature of UST and other Spanish-controlled institutions became a point of contention for the burgeoning group of educated Filipinos known as the Ilustrados. While many Ilustrados, including national hero Jose Rizal, received part or all of their education at UST, they often felt discriminated against compared to their Spanish peers. Accounts by Rizal and others detail experiences of prejudice and limitations on academic freedom within the university.

Despite these challenges, UST served as a vital, albeit sometimes frustrating, stepping stone for the Ilustrados. The knowledge and skills they acquired there, combined with their experiences and observations of colonial society, fueled their reformist and later revolutionary aspirations. The intellectual ferment, even within the confines of colonial academia, contributed to the growing sense of Filipino identity and dissatisfaction with Spanish rule.

The Age of Nationalism: UST and the Ilustrados

The late 19th century was a period of intense intellectual and political awakening in the Philippines, leading to the Philippine Revolution. The Ilustrados, a class of educated Filipinos, were at the forefront of this movement. Many of them were alumni of the University of Santo Tomas, having received their initial higher education within its hallowed halls before some pursued further studies in Europe.

Jose Rizal, the national hero, is arguably the most famous alumnus of UST during this era. He studied Philosophy and Letters, and later Medicine, at the university. His experiences at UST, including alleged encounters with discrimination and academic limitations, are depicted in his novels, particularly El Filibusterismo. While some historical interpretations debate the severity of the discrimination, Rizal’s writings undeniably reflect a critical perspective on the educational system under Spanish rule, including that of UST.

Other prominent figures of the nationalist movement who studied at UST include:

Marcelo H. del Pilar: Lawyer, writer, and journalist, one of the key figures of the Propaganda Movement. He studied Law at UST.
Antonio Luna: Pharmacist and general, a brilliant military strategist of the Philippine Revolution. He studied Pharmacy at UST.
Apolinario Mabini: Lawyer and statesman, known as the “Brain of the Revolution.” He also studied Law at UST.

These individuals, armed with the knowledge gained at UST and exposed to liberal ideas abroad, challenged the status quo. Their writings and political activities, initially focused on reforms within the Spanish system, eventually paved the way for revolution. While the university itself, as a colonial institution run by the Dominican Order, was not a hotbed of revolutionary activity, it inadvertently provided the intellectual foundation for many who would become leaders of the movement. The tension between the conservative, colonial-oriented education offered by UST and the progressive, nationalistic ideals of its Filipino students reflects the broader societal conflicts of the time.

The Philippine Revolution (1896-1898) significantly disrupted life at UST. Classes were suspended, and many students and faculty were involved, either in the fighting or in the political turmoil. The end of Spanish rule in 1898 and the subsequent American occupation marked a dramatic turning point for the university.

Transition to American Rule: Adaptation and Expansion

The arrival of the Americans brought about significant changes in the Philippine educational system, including the University of Santo Tomas. While the Americans established their own public education system with English as the medium of instruction, UST, under the continued administration of the Dominican Order, adapted to the new political landscape.

One of the most significant changes was the gradual shift in the language of instruction from Spanish to English. This was a complex and lengthy process, impacting both students and faculty. The curriculum also began to incorporate elements of the American educational model, although UST retained its strong Catholic identity and philosophical underpinnings.

The early decades of the American period saw UST expand its offerings and facilities. In 1911, the university celebrated its tricentennial, commemorating 300 years since its founding as the Colegio de Santo Tomas. This milestone highlighted its status as the oldest university in Asia.

A major development during this era was the relocation of the main campus. The original campus in Intramuros had become increasingly cramped. In the 1920s, under the Rector Magnificus Fr. Manuel Arellano, O.P., the university began the process of transferring to a much larger site in Sampaloc, Manila. The construction of the iconic Main Building, the Central Seminary Building, and other key structures in the new Sampaloc, Manila campus marked a new chapter for UST. The move was completed in the 1930s, leaving behind the historical campus in Intramuros (which was later devastated during World War II, although parts of the old campus grounds are now home to the UST Museum and Arch of Centuries).

The expansion in Sampaloc, Manila allowed UST to accommodate a growing student population and offer a wider range of programs. Faculties and colleges were established or expanded, including Engineering, Architecture, Education, and Commerce. UST became a prominent feature of the burgeoning University belt in Manila, solidifying its position as a major educational center in the country. Despite the presence of new American-established universities like the University of the Philippines, UST remained a vital institution, particularly for those seeking a Catholic education.

World War II: The UST Internment Camp

One of the most somber and historically significant periods for the University of Santo Tomas was during World War II and the Japanese Occupation of the Philippines (1942-1945). Following the occupation of Manila by Japanese forces, the UST campus in Sampaloc, Manila was converted into an internment camp for Allied civilians, primarily Americans, British, and other nationalities.

From January 1942 until its liberation in February 1945, the sprawling campus served as a detention center for thousands of internees. The Main Building, the Education Building, and other university facilities were used to house the detainees. Conditions in the camp were harsh, with overcrowding, limited food and medical supplies, and constant uncertainty. The Central Seminary building was also utilized, though its role and conditions differed slightly from the main civilian camp.

The transformation of the peaceful university campus into a wartime prison is a stark and poignant chapter in its history. The internees endured significant hardship, and many perished due to illness or malnutrition. The stories of survival and resilience within the UST Internment Camp are an important part of the wartime narrative of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the Dominican Order and the Filipino faculty and students of UST faced their own challenges under the Japanese Occupation. The university attempted to continue its educational mission under difficult circumstances, adapting to wartime restrictions and the pervasive atmosphere of conflict. The campus itself suffered damage during the Battle of Manila in 1945, particularly as American forces liberated the city and the internment camp. The Main Building, a symbol of the university, sustained damage but largely survived, a testament to its robust architecture.

The experience of serving as an internment camp left an indelible mark on the University of Santo Tomas. Today, markers and memorials on the campus in Sampaloc, Manila commemorate the events of World War II and honor the internees. The scars of war are a physical reminder of the university’s entanglement in the larger global conflict and its resilience in the face of devastation.

Post-War Growth and Modernization: A University for the Republic

The end of World War II and the granting of Philippine independence in 1946 ushered in a new era for the University of Santo Tomas. The immediate task was rebuilding and recovering from the war’s impact. The campus in Sampaloc, Manila, though damaged, became the sole operational site after the destruction of Intramuros.

The post-war period saw significant growth and modernization at UST. The university played a vital role in the recovery and development of the nation by continuing to provide quality Education in the Philippines. There was an expansion of existing programs and the establishment of new faculties and colleges to meet the demands of a rapidly changing society. This included the development of strong programs in sciences, engineering, and the social sciences, alongside the traditional strengths in theology, philosophy, and law.

The student population grew dramatically, reflecting the increasing demand for higher education in the Post-war Philippines. UST continued to be a leading institution in the University belt, attracting students from across the country. The Dominican Order remained the administrators, maintaining the university’s Catholic identity while adapting to the secular context of an independent republic.

In 1947, Pope Pius XII bestowed upon UST the title of “The Catholic University of the Philippines,” further emphasizing its role as a leading institution of Catholic education in the nation. This, along with its earlier titles of “Pontifical” and “Royal,” solidified its unique status as the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas.

The university’s infrastructure also saw continuous development. New buildings were constructed, facilities were upgraded, and the campus in Sampaloc, Manila evolved into the sprawling complex it is today. The library, laboratories, and research centers were expanded to support a wider range of academic pursuits.

UST continued to produce prominent graduates who contributed significantly to various fields in the Post-war Philippines, including politics, law, medicine, arts, and culture. The university maintained its reputation for academic rigor and character formation based on Catholic values.

UST as a Historical Landmark: Architecture and Significance

Beyond its academic function, the University of Santo Tomas campus in Sampaloc, Manila is itself a significant historical landmark Philippines. Its architecture reflects a blend of styles and historical periods, with some buildings holding national recognition for their design and historical importance.

The iconic Main Building, completed in 1927, is a prime example of Renaissance Revival architecture and is a National Historical Landmark. Its imposing facade and central tower are instantly recognizable symbols of the university. The Central Seminary building, adjacent to the Main Building and completed around the same time, shares a similar architectural style and is also a National Historical Landmark. These buildings were designed by the renowned architect Fr. Roque Ruaño, O.P.

Other notable structures on campus include the Arch of Centuries, which originally stood as the entrance to the old campus in Intramuros and was transferred to the new site. Passing through the Arch is a tradition for graduating students, symbolizing their journey through the university. The Martyrs’ Monument, located near the Main Building, commemorates the Thomasian martyrs of World War II.

The campus grounds in Sampaloc, Manila itself represent a planned academic environment, a departure from the constraints of the Intramuros site. The open spaces, tree-lined avenues, and architectural ensemble contribute to its status as a significant urban historical landmark Philippines.

UST’s historical significance extends beyond its buildings. Its long history, its role in shaping Philippine intellectual life, its resilience through war and political change, and its consistent contribution to Education in the Philippines solidify its position as a national treasure. As the oldest university in Asia, it holds a unique place in the history of global higher education.

Academic Life and Student Experience Through Eras

The academic life and student experience at the University of Santo Tomas have naturally evolved dramatically over its long history, mirroring the societal changes in the Philippines.

In the early Spanish Colonial Philippines, student life in Intramuros was highly regimented, primarily catering to a small elite. Education was centered on classical subjects and religious doctrine, with strict discipline enforced by the Dominican Order. Interaction between students and the outside world was limited, and academic freedom was largely absent.

During the late 19th century, the era of the Ilustrados and the stirrings of the Philippine Revolution, while formal academic structures remained conservative, student discussions and underground activities became more prevalent. Students like Jose Rizal experienced both the rigidity of the system and the burgeoning intellectual ferment among their peers. Life was still focused on the walled city of Intramuros, but the winds of change were blowing.

The transition to American rule saw significant shifts. The introduction of English as a medium of instruction changed the classroom dynamic. The move to the spacious Sampaloc, Manila campus transformed the physical environment, allowing for more diverse student activities and a less confined experience compared to Intramuros. As UST became a key institution in the University belt, students interacted with peers from other institutions.

The period of World War II, particularly the time when the campus served as the UST Internment Camp, brought unimaginable hardship and disruption. Academic life essentially ceased for a time, replaced by the grim reality of survival in a prison camp. For Filipino students and faculty who remained, continuing education was a struggle amidst scarcity and occupation.

In the Post-war Philippines, student life became more diverse and vibrant. The expanded campus and curriculum offered more choices. Student organizations proliferated, covering academic, social, cultural, and political interests. UST, as a major university in the University belt, became a microcosm of Philippine society, reflecting its aspirations, challenges, and changing cultural landscape. The Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Civil Law, and Faculty of Pharmacy, among others, continued to be highly competitive and sought-after programs.

Today, student life at UST is a mix of tradition and modernity. Academic pursuits are still central, grounded in the university’s Catholic mission, but alongside this are a wide range of extracurricular activities, community engagement, and participation in national discourse. The historical weight of being the oldest university in Asia and a Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas continues to shape the student experience, instilling a sense of history and tradition.

Era	Campus Location	Primary Language(s)	Student Demographic	Notable Academic Fields (Early)	Key Historical Context
Spanish Colonial (Early)	Intramuros	Spanish, Latin	Spanish elite, limited Filipino	Theology, Philosophy, Canon Law	Establishment of colonial rule, Catholic evangelization
Spanish Colonial (Late)	Intramuros	Spanish	Elite Filipinos, Spanish elite	Law, Medicine, Pharmacy (Later)	Propaganda Movement, Philippine Revolution
American Period	Intramuros & Sampaloc	Spanish, English	Broader Filipino population	Arts, Sciences, Engineering	American colonization, shift to English, secularization
World War II	Sampaloc	Disrupted	Internees, limited Filipino students	Interrupted	Japanese Occupation, Internment Camp, Battle of Manila
Post-war Republic	Sampaloc	English, Filipino	Diverse Filipino population	All disciplines	Nation-building, modernization, political changes

Export to Sheets

UST’s Enduring Legacy

The legacy of the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines is profound and multifaceted. As the oldest university in Asia, it has played a unique role in the intellectual, cultural, and religious development of the nation.

Education in the Philippines: UST has consistently been a leader in higher education, setting standards and producing generations of professionals and leaders who have shaped the country. Its diverse range of programs, including the long-standing Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Civil Law, and Faculty of Pharmacy, has contributed significantly to various sectors.
Catholic Education: As a Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, it remains a cornerstone of Catholic education, providing formation grounded in faith and reason. It has been instrumental in training clergy and lay leaders, contributing to the strong Catholic identity of the Philippines. The Central Seminary continues this important role.
Intellectual Tradition: For centuries, UST was the primary center of intellectual life in the Philippines. While its early tradition was largely Scholastic, it gradually incorporated newer academic disciplines and research, fostering a tradition of scholarship and critical thinking.
Historical Witness: The university’s physical campus in Sampaloc, Manila and its historical records serve as a repository of Philippine history. It witnessed and was impacted by major events, from the Philippine Revolution to World War II, offering a tangible link to the past. Its status as a historical landmark Philippines recognizes this importance.
National Identity: Although initially a colonial institution, UST educated many figures who were instrumental in forging a Filipino national identity, including Jose Rizal. Its evolution reflects the nation’s own journey from colony to independent republic.
Location and Urban Development: The development of the UST campus in Sampaloc, Manila contributed significantly to the growth and character of the University belt, transforming a district of Manila into a vibrant educational hub.

The Dominican Order continues to oversee the university, upholding its historical mission while adapting to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The University of Santo Tomas remains a vibrant and influential institution, a living testament to centuries of history, education, and faith in the Philippines. From its beginnings in Intramuros to its sprawling campus in Sampaloc, Manila, UST stands as a pillar, reflecting the nation’s past, contributing to its present, and shaping its future.

Key Takeaways:

UST is the oldest university in Asia, founded by the Dominican Order in 1611.
It was initially located in Intramuros and later moved to Sampaloc, Manila.
UST served as a major center for Catholic education throughout the Spanish Colonial Philippines.
Notable alumni include Jose Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, and Antonio Luna, key figures of the Philippine Revolution.
During World War II, the UST campus was used as an internment camp during the Japanese Occupation.
UST holds the unique title of Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas.
Its campus, particularly the Main Building and Central Seminary, is a significant historical landmark Philippines.
UST has adapted through various historical periods, contributing significantly to Education in the Philippines and national development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: When was the University of Santo Tomas founded? A: The University of Santo Tomas was founded as the Colegio de Santo Tomas by the Dominican Order on April 28, 1611. It was elevated to university status by papal bull in 1645.

Q: Where was the original UST campus located? A: The original campus of the University of Santo Tomas was located within the walled city of Intramuros, Manila.

Q: Why is UST considered the oldest university in Asia? A: Based on its founding date in 1611 as a college that was later elevated to a university in 1645, the University of Santo Tomas holds the distinction of being the oldest university in Asia.

Q: What is the significance of the title “Pontifical and Royal”? A: The title “Royal” was granted by the Spanish Crown in 1681, recognizing its royal patronage. The title “Pontifical” was granted by the Pope in 1785, signifying its close ties and service to the Holy See. Together, these titles reflect its historical importance to both the Spanish Monarchy and the Catholic Church.

Q: How was UST involved in the Philippine Revolution? A: While UST itself was a colonial institution, many of its alumni, including key figures like Jose Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, and Antonio Luna (all Ilustrados), were instrumental in the Propaganda Movement and the Philippine Revolution. Their education at UST provided them with the intellectual foundation to challenge Spanish rule.

Q: What happened to the UST campus during World War II? A: During World War II and the Japanese Occupation, the University of Santo Tomas campus in Sampaloc, Manila was converted by the Japanese forces into an internment camp for Allied civilians from 1942 to 1945.

Q: What are some of the oldest faculties at UST? A: Some of the oldest faculties at the University of Santo Tomas include the Faculty of Sacred Theology, Faculty of Philosophy, Faculty of Canon Law, Faculty of Civil Law, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, and Faculty of Pharmacy.

Q: What is the “University belt” in Manila? A: The University belt is a district in Manila where several universities and colleges are concentrated. The University of Santo Tomas, located in Sampaloc, Manila, is one of the most prominent institutions within the University belt.

Q: Is the old UST campus in Intramuros still standing? A: Most of the original structures of the UST campus in Intramuros were destroyed during the Battle of Manila in World War II. However, the Arch of Centuries, which served as an entrance to the old campus, was transferred to the current campus in Sampaloc, Manila. Parts of the original site in Intramuros are now occupied by other structures or memorialized.

Q: Who founded the University of Santo Tomas? A: The University of Santo Tomas was founded based on the will of Miguel de Benavides, O.P., the third Archbishop of Manila. The Dominican Order carried out his vision and established the institution.

Sources:

de la Rosa, R. (2011). The University of Santo Tomas: 400 Years of Higher Education in the Philippines (1611-2011). UST Publishing House.
Ferrer, M. (2012). University of Santo Tomas: A Historical Guide to the Campus. UST Publishing House.
Rodríguez, L. (1987). The Old University of Santo Tomas (1611-1927). UST Press.
Zaide, G. F. (1994). Philippine History and Government. All-Nations Publishing Co.
Ocampo, A. (2000). Rizal Without the Overcoat. Anvil Publishing. (For insights into Rizal’s experiences).
Coquin, J. (1985). History of the City of Manila. Historical Conservation Society. (For context on Intramuros and Manila).
The Official Website of the University of Santo Tomas. (ust.edu.ph – for institutional history and facts).
National Historical Commission of the Philippines. (nhcp.gov.ph – for information on historical landmarks).

Category: Filipino Culture and Heritage