UST PRESS RELEASE

At 3:00 p.m. last January 25, 2010, the National Museum recognized the key role of the University of Santo Tomas in our nation’s historical and cultural heritage through its formal declaration of the UST Main Building, the Central Seminary, the Arch of the Centuries and the University’s Open Spaces as National Cultural Treasures.

Section 3 of “The Cultural Properties Preservation and Protection Act” states that a “National Cultural Treasure is a unique object found locally, possessing outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or scientific value which is significant and important to this country and nation.” This prestigious recognition marks the first ever inclusion of an educational institution among the ranks of National Cultural Treasures, with the majority of structures being churches and the rest being terrestrial landmarks, intangible cultural property and movable objects.”

The declaration, considered a milestone for UST, was the culmination of efforts which began in 2004. Also, it coincided with the various activities for UST’s Quadricentennial celebration in 2011.

The declaration ceremonies was held at the UST Main Building Lobby following the unveiling of “The Foundation of the University of Santo Tomas by Archbishop Benavides”, an oil on canvas painting dated 1911 and restored through the UST Museum’s Heritage Conservation Fund.