University of the Philippines Diliman

University of the Philippines Diliman

Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Diliman (Filipino)
Official seal of UP Diliman
Motto	Honor, Excellence, Service
Type	National state university, research university
Established	June 18, 1908 (116 years and 270 days) 1949 (transfer of main campus to Diliman)
Academic affiliations	Association of Pacific Rim Universities Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning ASEAN European Academic University Network ASEAN University Network
Chancellor	Edgardo Carlo Vistan II
President	Angelo Jimenez
Academic staff	3,078 (2023)
Students	26,349 (2023)
Undergraduates	17,117 (2023)
Postgraduates	9,232 (2023)
Location	Diliman, Quezon City , Philippines 14°39′17.73″N 121°3′53.46″E
Campus	Suburban
Newspaper	Philippine Collegian
Colors	UP Maroon UP Forest Green
Nickname	Fighting Maroons
Sporting affiliations	University Athletic Association of the Philippines
Website	upd.edu.ph

The University of the Philippines Diliman (also called UPD; Filipino: Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Diliman), also referred to as UP Diliman or simply University of the Philippines (UP), is a public, coeducational, research university located in Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines. It was established on February 12, 1949, as the flagship campus and seat of administration of the University of the Philippines System, the national university of the Philippines.

As a member of the University of the Philippines System, it is the fourth oldest and is the largest constituent campus in terms of the number of degree-granting academic units, student population, faculty, and library resources. There are 27 degree-granting units on campus, accounting for 26,349 students of which, 17,117 are undergraduates. UP Diliman had a complement of 1,620 regular faculty in 2023, of whom 499 have doctoral degrees.

Quezon Hall, the seat of the University of the Philippines System and the administration building of UP Diliman

In addition to the units in the main campus, UP Diliman has extension programs in Angeles City, Pampanga (the Clark Freeport Zone area) and Olongapo, Zambales, as well as a marine laboratory in Bolinao, Pangasinan under the Marine Science Institute, and an satellite campus at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. UP Diliman offers academic programs in 247 major fields. There are 70 programs at the undergraduate level, 109 programs at the master's level and 68 at the doctoral level.

The UP Diliman campus is also the site of the country's National Science Complex. Notable research units of UP Diliman centered at the National Science Complex include the Marine Science Institute (MSI), the National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS), the National Institute of Physics (NIP), the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (NIMBB), the National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (NISMED), and the Computational Science Research Center (CSRC) which are all pioneers of scientific research and development in the Philippines. The Sentro ng Wikang Filipino, devoted to research on the intellectualization of the Filipino language, is also located in the campus.

A nationally important university, UP Diliman alumni include a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Philippine presidents, chief justices of the Philippine Supreme Court, Philippine National Scientists, and Philippine National Artists, the most of any higher education institution. Taken as a single university distinct from other UP System campuses, UP Diliman is considered as the top institution of higher learning in the country, based on the reports published by the CWUR University Rankings and the U.S. News & World Report.

The Management Review Committee (MRC) was created by UP President Edgardo Angara in the 1980s to evaluate and recommend measures for the university's improvement. The report made by the MRC led to the decision of the Board of Regents to further decentralize the UP administration, declaring UP Diliman an autonomous unit and the system's flagship university on March 23, 1983. This also furthered the reorganization of some major units of the university, with the College of Arts and Sciences being split into three colleges: the College of Science, the College of Arts and Letters and the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy. UP Diliman was formally established as a constituent university on April 23, 1985, at the 976th Meeting of the U.P. Board of Regents.

History

The University of the Philippines was founded on June 18, 1908, in Manila, offering programs in liberal arts, medicine, law, and engineering. As enrollment increased—from 67 students in 1908 to 7,849 by 1928—the need for a larger campus became evident. In 1939, the UP Board of Regents acquired a 493-hectare tract of land in Diliman, Quezon City, to accommodate the university’s expansion. The site was envisioned to house modern facilities that would allow for further academic growth. Construction of the new campus commenced in 1939, but work was interrupted by World War II. During the war, many of the newly constructed buildings in Diliman were used as military barracks by the Imperial Japanese Army, delaying the relocation efforts. Following the liberation of Manila in 1945, efforts to rebuild and expand the campus resumed.

The Diliman Commune in 1971.

By 1949, significant progress had been made in the development of the campus, allowing for the transfer of administrative offices, academic units, and faculty residences from UP Manila to UP Diliman. On February 12, 1949, a symbolic motorcade led by then-UP President Bienvenido Gonzales transported the Oblation statue from Padre Faura in Manilato its current location in front of Quezon Hall. This event marked the formal establishment of UP Diliman as the new primary campus of the UP System.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, UP Diliman expanded its facilities, establishing new academic buildings, research centers, and residential areas. This period saw the construction of several architecturally significant structures, including Quezon Hall (Administration Building), Gonzalez Hall (Main Library), and Benitez Hall (College of Education), designed by National Artist for Architecture Juan Nakpil. Other modernist structures, such as Palma Hall (College of Social Sciences and Philosophy) and Melchor Hall (College of Engineering), were designed by Cesar Concio, reflecting the post-war shift toward functionalist and modernist architecture.

In 1985, UP Diliman was granted institutional autonomy, retroactive to 1981, in response to the university system’s restructuring. This autonomy allowed the campus to develop its own academic policies, governance structure, and research initiatives, strengthening its status as a leading institution for higher education and innovation.

The campus continued to grow with the establishment of the National Science Complex (NSC) in 2006, a 21.9-hectare area dedicated to scientific research and development, housing the National Institute of Physics, National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and the Institute of Chemistry, among others.

UP Diliman has historically been a center for student activism and social movements, particularly during periods of political unrest. The university played a key role in the First Quarter Storm (1970), a series of protests against the government of Ferdinand Marcos, and was the site of the Diliman Commune (1971), a student-led uprising in response to military and police intervention on campus. Throughout martial law (1972–1981), UP Diliman remained a focal point for pro-democracy movements, solidifying its reputation as a bastion of academic freedom and resistance.

Today, UP Diliman remains the largest constituent university in the UP System, offering a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and research programs. It continues to be a center for scientific research, cultural development, and political discourse, reinforcing its role as the premier national university of the Philippines. The campus’s architectural and historical landmarks, coupled with its enduring commitment to academic excellence and social relevance, make it one of the most significant institutions of higher learning in Southeast Asia.

Campus

Map of the main area of the University of the Philippines Diliman

The UP Diliman campus is the largest and most architecturally diverse among the constituent universities of the UP System. Spanning 493 hectares in Quezon City, it serves as the system’s administrative and academic flagship, housing the Office of the UP President, the Office of the Chancellor, and the nation’s leading research institutions. The campus reflects a rich architectural heritage, with structures ranging from neoclassical landmarks to modernist academic complexes and contemporary, sustainability-focused buildings.

At its core is the Academic Oval, a tree-lined loop that defines the university’s central academic and administrative district. Along this axis are Quezon Hall, the university’s main administration building designed by Juan Nakpil; Gonzalez Hall, the University Library, also by Nakpil; and Benitez Hall and Malcolm Hall, two mirror-image neoclassical structures that house the College of Education and the College of Law, respectively. Other major colleges, including the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy, the College of Engineering, and the College of Science, are strategically located within or near the Oval, reinforcing its role as the university’s intellectual center.

Beyond the Academic Oval, UP Diliman extends into distinct academic clusters, research hubs, residential zones, and open spaces, reflecting a well-planned balance between built and natural environments. To the east, the National Science Complex (NSC) and Engineering Complex house state-of-the-art STEM research facilities. The southern sector features cultural institutions, such as the UP Film Institute, Jorge B. Vargas Museum, and Abelardo Hall, which serve as centers for artistic expression and historical preservation. The campus is also home to extensive green spaces, including the Sunken Garden, the Lagoon, and the UP Arboretum, which contribute to its walkability and ecological diversity.

Functioning as both an academic hub and a self-sustaining community, UP Diliman incorporates residential areas for faculty, staff, and students, commercial centers, and public transport networks, creating a campus environment that integrates education, culture, and urban life.

Quezon Hall

Quezon Hall serves as the administration building of the University of the Philippines Diliman (UP Diliman) and houses the Office of the Chancellor, along with various administrative units responsible for campus governance. Designed by National Artist for Architecture Juan Nakpil, the building was completed in the early 1950s as part of the post-war expansion of the university following its relocation from Manila to Diliman, Quezon City. Positioned at the terminus of University Avenue, Quezon Hall functions as the institutional focal point of the campus and plays a central role in its spatial and organizational planning.

Quezon Hall and the Oblation Plaza

Quezon Hall integrates neoclassical and modernist design elements, reflecting Nakpil’s architectural approach that emphasizes monumentality, symmetry, and functional efficiency. The building’s grand facade is characterized by tall Doric columns supporting a portico and triangular pediment, lending it an air of institutional authority. The rectangular footprint, reinforced concrete construction, and symmetrical layout highlight its durability and balanced composition, aligning with classical principles while incorporating modernist influences in its streamlined detailing and use of natural lighting. The central section of the building features a high-ceilinged main lobby, with large arched windows that facilitate natural ventilation and enhance the structure’s sense of openness. The architectural design prioritizes functionality, ensuring that the building can accommodate the administrative requirements of the university while maintaining a formal and dignified presence within the campus landscape.

Quezon Hall is strategically located at the end of University Avenue, establishing it as the visual and administrative anchor of UP Diliman. Directly in front of the building is the Oblation Plaza, where the Oblation statue, a bronze sculpture by National Artist Guillermo Tolentino, stands as a symbol of selfless service and academic freedom. The axial alignment of Quezon Hall with the Oblation Plaza and other key buildings—including Gonzalez Hall (Main Library), Benitez Hall (College of Education), and Malcolm Hall (College of Law)—reinforces its central role in the campus’s master plan. The building’s placement within the Academic Oval follows Beaux-Arts planning principles, creating an orderly arrangement of administrative and academic buildings around a central green space. This layout facilitates institutional coherence while allowing for efficient campus circulation.

Quezon Hall was constructed during a period of post-war reconstruction and academic expansion, as UP sought to establish a permanent main campus after relocating from Padre Faura, Manila. The decision to move the university to Diliman was driven by the need for a larger, purpose-built academic environment, which could accommodate the university’s growing student population and research programs. Over the decades, Quezon Hall has undergone renovations and modifications, including interior refurbishments and structural reinforcements, to accommodate the evolving needs of university administration. Despite these changes, the building has retained its original design integrity, preserving Nakpil’s vision of an administrative hub that balances tradition and modernity.

The Oblation and Academic Oval

Main article: Oblation (University of the Philippines)

The U.P. Diliman campus is connected to Commonwealth Avenue via University Avenue. It stretches 800 meters (2,600 ft) where traffic enters the campus or proceeds towards C.P. Garcia St., which connects Commonwealth Avenue to Katipunan Avenue. At the end of University Avenue, the Oblation Plaza of the Diliman campus faces the road. Behind it, the facade of Quezon Hall can be seen.

The Oblation in front of Quezon Hall. The original statue is located inside Gonzalez Hall, the university library.

The Oblation statue (Tagalog: Pahinungod/Oblasyon) is the most iconic figure of the U.P. System. The statue was originally created by National Artist Guillermo E. Tolentino in 1935 in a collective effort by the students of the U.P. System. During the 40th anniversary of the University of the Philippines in 1949, the Oblation was transferred to Diliman in Quezon City from their original site along Padre Faura St. in Manila as a symbol of transfer of administrative seat. The Oblation was originally naked and made of concrete and stands 3.5 meters (11 ft) in height. For morality and censorship purposes, U.P. President Jorge Bocobo suggested to put a fig leaf to cover the genitals. In 1950, the Board of Regents ordered the statue to be cast in true bronze. Tolentino made a trip to Italy to personally supervise the casting of his old masterpiece into bronze. The bronze statue, unveiled on November 29, 1958, is now housed at Gonzalez Hall where the University Library is also located.

Several replicas of Tolentino's Oblation statue were created during the creation of new U.P. campuses, some were made by the National Artist Napoleon Abueva. U.P. Diliman's Oblation statue located in the Oblation Plaza is also a concrete-made replica of Tolentino's.

The main and largest road in the university is the Academic Oval, informally known as "Acad Oval". This road is composed of two joining avenues, the Roxas and Osmeña Avenues. Having a total circumference of about 2.2 kilometers (1.4 mi), the oval connects the rest of the colleges of the university from the main University Avenue. The avenue derives its name from several colleges located around it, namely the College of Mass Communication, College of Music, College of Engineering, College of Law, School of Economics, College of Business Administration, College of Education, College of Social Sciences and Philosophy and School of Library and Information Studies. The oval also covers Quezon Hall, the U.P. Theater, National Engineering Center, Student Activity Center/Vinzons Hall, Center for International Studies and Jorge B. Vargas Museum. Additionally, the Academic Oval is planted with over 500 acacia and fire trees.

Benitez Hall and Malcolm Hall

Benitez Hall and Malcolm Hall, two of the oldest and most architecturally significant buildings on the UP Diliman campus, stand as mirror images of each other at the head of the Academic Oval. Designed by Juan Marcos Arellano y de Guzmán, their construction began in 1939 and was completed between 1941 and 1949. Both structures follow the neoclassical architectural tradition, characterized by symmetrical facades, grand columns, and classical detailing, evoking a sense of academic prestige and institutional authority. Their twin designs emphasize the enduring connection between education and law, two disciplines that have played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s intellectual and legal landscape.

Benitez Hall, home of College of Education.

Benitez Hall, home to the College of Education, is named after Francisco F. Benitez, the first dean of the School of Education. Its design features a balanced facade with a prominent pediment and pilastered entrance, reinforcing its function as a center of learning and teacher training. During World War II, the building was repurposed as a military quarters by Japanese forces, and it was reportedly the site of wartime atrocities, leading to persistent stories of paranormal activity within its halls.

Standing directly across from it, Malcolm Hall houses the UP College of Law and is named after George Malcolm, a former Associate Justice of the Philippine Supreme Court and the founding dean of the College of Law. As a mirror image of Benitez Hall, Malcolm Hall exhibits the same neoclassical symmetry, with its tall Corinthian columns and arched windows, creating an imposing yet dignified presence befitting a law institution. Its placement opposite the College of Education underscores the university’s commitment to producing both educators and legal minds, shaping the country’s academic and judicial landscape in equal measure.

Together, Benitez Hall and Malcolm Hall remain among UP Diliman’s most recognizable landmarks, their symmetrical placement and shared architectural identity making them integral to the university’s historical and academic heritage. More than just structures, they symbolize the university’s enduring role in nation-building, fostering the educators and legal professionals who continue to shape the country’s future.

Palma Hall and Melchor Hall

Palma Hall, informally known as “AS” (Arts and Sciences), serves as the main building for the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy at UP Diliman. Designed by Cesar Homero Rosales Concio, the university’s first campus architect, it was completed in 1951. The building is named after Rafael Palma, the fourth president of the university, who was a staunch advocate for academic freedom and liberalism.

Melchor Hall, the main building of the UP College of Engineering

Palma Hall exemplifies the International Style of architecture, characterized by functional design and minimalist aesthetics. Concio incorporated Filipino architectural elements to enhance natural ventilation and lighting, making the structure well-adapted to the tropical climate. The asymmetrical layout and open-air corridors facilitate airflow and natural illumination, reflecting the modernist architectural trends of the era. The building is distinguished by its exposed concrete framework, horizontal louvers, and cantilevered balconies, all of which contribute to its practical and climate-responsive design.

Melchor Hall, the main building of the College of Engineering, was also designed by Cesar Concio and completed in the early 1950s. The structure serves as a counterpart to Palma Hall, mirroring its modernist design language while serving the distinct needs of the engineering faculty. Like Palma Hall, it follows the principles of Bauhaus architecture, emphasizing rationality, geometric order, and efficiency.

Melchor Hall’s symmetrical structure is divided into two wings by an imposing central section, characterized by a large rectangular three-story-high portal, which serves as the main entrance. The interior spaces are designed to accommodate laboratories, lecture halls, and administrative offices, with an emphasis on modular and functional layouts.

Both Palma and Melchor Halls are considered landmarks of UP Diliman, embodying the university’s commitment to academic excellence and innovative architectural design that is both functional and climate-responsive.

Gonzalez Hall

Gonzalez Hall, Main Library

Gonzalez Hall, the University Main Library of UP Diliman, was designed by National Artist for Architecture Juan Nakpil and completed in 1950. Named after Bienvenido M. Gonzalez, the university’s sixth president, the building was part of the post-war expansion that established UP Diliman as the new flagship campus of the University of the Philippines.The building embodies neoclassical architectural principles, characterized by its grand facade, symmetrical proportions, and imposing columns, which create an atmosphere of intellectual prestige and permanence. The central entrance, framed by a series of tall pilasters, evokes a sense of order and discipline, reflecting the role of the library as the university’s knowledge hub.

Inside, Gonzalez Hall serves as the central repository of academic and research materials, housing extensive collections, archives, and special publications that support the university’s scholarly community. The Main Library Reading Hall, located within the building, provides an expansive space for students, researchers, and faculty members, fostering an environment conducive to study and intellectual engagement.

Strategically located within the Academic Oval, beside the Sunken Garden, Gonzalez Hall serves as a landmark of learning and scholarship, anchoring the university’s commitment to academic excellence. Its design, both monumental and functional, reflects the ideals of education, research, and intellectual pursuit that define UP Diliman’s role as the premier institution of higher learning in the Philippines.

Parish of the Holy Sacrifice

Parish of the Holy Sacrifice

The Parish of the Holy Sacrifice, commonly known as the UP Chapel, is a Catholic chapel located on the UP Diliman campus. It was designed by Leandro V. Locsin, National Artist for Architecture, and completed in 1955. It is recognized for being the first circular church in the Philippines, with the altar placed at the center and the first structure in the country to feature a thin-shell concrete dome.The chapel contains works by multiple National Artists: Arturo Luz (floor mosaic), Vicente Manansala and Ang Kiukok (15 Stations of the Cross murals) and Napoleon Abueva (crucifix and altar). The design allows natural light to enhance the interior’s serene and contemplative atmosphere. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has declared it a National Historical Landmark, while the National Museum has recognized it as a Cultural Treasure.

Carillon and bell tower

The only carillon in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia that is manually played by a clavier or a wooden keyboard, the U.P. Carillon tower is about 130 feet tall. The U.P. Carillon was originally constructed in 1940 by National Artist Juan Nakpil, Conservatory of Music director Ramon Tapales and UP President Bienvenido Gonzales with an initial idea of building a concrete structure that may tower the grounds of the university. Several years later, on August 1, 1952, the tower was finished and dedicated as the U.P. Carillon. Forty-eight bells with four octaves were installed by the Dutch carillonneur Adrian Antonisse, with the efforts laid by the U.P. Alumni Association. These bells were forged by Van Bergen Co. in Netherlands and the largest of them weighs five tons, where the total cost of construction summed up to ₱200,000.

Apart from playing the U.P.'s anthem UP Naming Mahal (U.P. Beloved), the carillon tuned many music such as the Magtanim ay Di Biro (Planting Rice, a Filipino folk song) and The Beatles sounds. One of the most important tunings of the carillon was when it played the socialist anthem The Internationale at the 1971 Diliman Commune. During this time, U.P. students declared the university as a republic and as a separate entity from the Philippines.

The Carillon Tower and Carillon Plaza as seen from Magsaysay Avenue

Due to age and rust, the carillon ceased to play in 1981. In 1988, the last symphonies of U.P. Naming Mahal and Push On U.P.! (U.P. Diliman's athletic cheer) from the tower was played during the December's Lantern Parade. Since then, the carillon was never tuned. But as late as 2001, students said that they could hear the rhymes of London Bridge Is Falling Down and Sing a Song of Six Pence, despite the carillion being closed to prevent further mishap.

In 2005, through the collective efforts of the U.P. Alumni Association and various private donors, the U.P. Carillon Restoration Project of the U.P. Centennial Commission launched a fund-raising program to collect ₱20 million to restore the carillon, as a projection of using the tower again in the coming 100th year of the University of the Philippines. After two years, the Project was able to collect ₱14 million which will be used to clean up and repair the tower itself and to replace the bells.

In 2007, the carillon was formally reintroduced to the public after two years of restoration. The original 48 bells were put into archives and were replaced by 36 bells bought from Dutch company Petit & Fritsen for ₱12 million, for which the construction engineers were provided by the Royal Bell Philippines. According to project engineer Matthew Bergers, each bell was made from 80% bronze and 20% an admixture of zinc, magnesium and phosphorus. The largest of these bells weighs 635 kilograms (1,400 lb) and the smallest 14 kilograms (31 lb). The original wood claviers were replaced by heavy-duty oakwood; all bells are designed to hold refurbished steel pipes. Another project engineer, Eduardo Otacan, said that the new bells will have a three-octave range, and can be programmed using computers attached to the clavier.

At the same time, a small amphitheater named Carillon Plaza was constructed at the base of the tower. After about two decades of silence, the U.P. Carillon was heard again during the Lantern Parade of 2007.

Sunken Garden

The Sunken Garden in U.P. Diliman during the wet months

The Gen. Antonio Luna Parade Grounds, or commonly known as the Sunken Garden, is a 5-hectare (12-acre) natural depression found on the eastern side of the campus and at the end of the Academic Oval circle. Sunken Garden is enclosed by the UP Main Library, College of Social Sciences and Philosophy's Department of Psychology, College of Education, Student Activity Center/Vinzons Hall, College of Business Administration, School of Economics and College of Law. The Grounds was originally a property of the UP Reserved Officers' Training Corps when the campus was founded in 1949.

Gen. Antonio Luna Parade Grounds acquired its name Sunken Garden due to its basin-shaped low-level formation that has the deepest point of 65 meters above sea level (contrary to the university's height that is over hundreds of meters above sea level). The Sunken Garden is the venue of the annual U.P. Fair as well as for sports tournaments, including football, frisbee and volleyball. Sometimes, the Department of Military Science and Tactics hold training in the area.

According to local lore, the Sunken Garden sinks by about two inches every year. Though this has not been verified in any study, some have posited reasons for the sinking: one is that it is because of underground trenches over the campus' sewer system that connects to the Marikina Fault Line, an active geologic structure that runs across the east of Metro Manila. Another theory is that the depression was due to the emptying of former streams in the Sunken Garden that were prominent in the 1950s. These streams formerly run from Katipunan Avenue, going to the garden itself and leaves the campus for Commonwealth Avenue.

National Science Complex

The National Science Complex (NSC) serves as a pivotal center for scientific research and education in the Philippines. Established through Executive Order 583 in 2006, the NSC spans 21.9 hectares within the UP Diliman campus in Quezon City. This initiative underscores the university’s commitment to enhancing the country’s scientific and technological capabilities. The NSC’s architectural plan reflects modern functionality and sustainability, aligning with its mission to foster scientific advancement. The complex comprises several research and academic institutes, each housed in purpose-built facilities designed to support specialized scientific endeavors.

The National Science Complex Ampitheater, with the Institute of Mathematics in the background.

Notable institutes within the NSC include:

• National Institute of Physics (NIP)
• National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS)
• National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (NIMBB)
• Institute of Biology (IB)
• Institute of Chemistry (IC)
• Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM)
• Computational Science Research Center (CSRC)

The layout of the NSC promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, with these institutes strategically positioned to encourage synergy among various scientific disciplines. Central to the complex is the NSC Amphitheater, an expansive, circular lawn flanked by several NSC units, including the Computational Science Research Center, Institute of Mathematics, National Institute of Physics, Institute of Chemistry, and National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. The amphitheater features a distinctive stage with a white, stretched fabric structure designed by the Office of the Campus Architect. This nine-layer architectural membrane is both ultraviolet and weather-resistant, capable of withstanding winds up to 200 km/h. The stage’s sweeping arches echo the smaller arches supporting the benches at the periphery of the amphitheater, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design.  

Administration

Chancellors of the University of the Philippines Diliman

Edgardo J. Angara, LL.M., 1982–1983

Dr. Ernesto G. Tabujara Sr., 1983–1990

Dr. Jose V. Abueva, 1990–1991

Dr. Emerlinda R. Roman, 1991–1993

Dr. Roger Posadas,1993–1996

Dr. Claro T. Llaguno, 1996–1999

Dr. Emerlinda R. Roman, 1999–2005

Dr. Sergio S. Cao, 2005–2011

Dr. Caesar A. Saloma, 2011–2014

Dr. Michael L. Tan, 2014–2020

Dr. Fidel R. Nemenzo, 2020–2023

Edgardo Carlo Vistan II, 2023–present

U.P. Diliman is the fourth oldest and is the largest, in terms of student population, of all the seven major campuses of the University of the Philippines. The University of the Philippines is governed by the Board of Regents' 11 members, of whom five are ex officio, three are student, faculty, and staff representatives, and three are appointed by the President of the Philippines. Each campus of the University of the Philippines is headed by a chancellor. The first chancellor of U.P. Diliman was Senator Edgardo J. Angara, whose office was created on April 26, 1982. The chancellor is assisted by five vice chancellors — for academic affairs, administration, community affairs, research & development, and student affairs. The current chancellor is Edgardo Carlo Vistan II, who was appointed by the Board of Regents into position during its meeting in April 2023.

Apart from heading the university, the chancellor also holds administrative duties that represent the Board of Regents at the campus level. The chancellor also serves as chairperson of the university council, an internal coordinating body composed of the chancellor himself, the university registrar who serves as secretary, and the professorial faculty. The vice chancellor for academic affairs, on the other hand, assists the chancellor in coordinating curricular, instructional, library, and other programs of the university. The vice chancellor for administration assists the chancellor in the administrative management of the campus. The vice-chancellor for community affairs assists the chancellor in promoting relationships within the university and in dealing with local government and safety issues, while the vice chancellor for research & development assists the chancellor in formulating guidelines and criteria for the university's research and development endeavors. Finally, the vice chancellor for student affairs assists the chancellor in promoting wellness and discipline among students in areas such as health, food services, and scholarship management.

Academics

Colleges and Institutes

The university's departments are headed by department chairs, who assume the duties assigned by the dean and the chancellor. Each chair is appointed by the chancellor, as recommended by the dean or institute director, and has a tenure of three years, which may be extended for up to two terms upon reappointment.

Some units of the university are known as National Institutes, such as the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. The status of being an institute is determined by the Board of Regents, but recognition as a national institute is governed by Philippine legislation. The head of a national institute, also the director, is not appointed by the chancellor but by the president of the university.

In addition to the units in the main campus, UP Diliman has degree-granting satellite campuses (officially named extension programs) in Angeles City, Pampanga (specifically in the Clark Freeport Zone area) and in Olongapo, Zambales. These degree-granting extension programs are headed by a director, who assumes the duties assigned by the chancellor.

U.P. Diliman is composed of 26 colleges, schools, and institutes. Officially, these are called degree-granting units. The oldest of these colleges is the College of Fine Arts^[usurped], established in 1908 and originally located in Manila. On the other hand, the first college to operate on the Diliman campus is the College of Music (then Conservatory of Music) in 1949.

• 
  College of Fine Arts
• 
  College of Education
• 
  National College of Public Administration and Governance
• 
  School of Statistics
• 
  School of Labor and Industrial Relations
• 
  College of Home Economics
• 
  College of Social Work and Community Development
• 
  College of Mass Communication
• 
  Institute of Islamic Studies
• 
  College of Science
• 
  College of Social Science and Philosophy
• 
  School of Archaeology

Grading System and Academic Calendar

Academic performance is rated from 1.00 being excellent to 5.00 as failed. Grades from 1.00 to 3.00 are separated by increments of 0.25, while 3.00 is followed immediately by 4.00 and then 5.00. Some professors use 0.50 as increments instead, and some colleges, particularly the College of Engineering do not give 4.00 grades. A grade of four (4.00) is a conditional grade and a student needs to remove the grade of 4.00 during a prescribed period (usually determined by the college where he/she is enrolled) or else it will become 5.00 once the period has lapsed. A conditional grade can only be removed by a removal exam; if the student passes the exam, he/she will obtain a grade of 3.00; otherwise, it is 5.00. An alternative for 4.00 is the rating of "INC", which means incomplete, and is given to students who have unfinished requirements for a particular subject. If a student drops the subject before the "subject dropping period" his/her record for that subject will be replaced by "DRP".

Students who attain a grade point average of 1.20 or better, 1.45 to 1.20, and 1.75 to 1.45 are awarded upon graduation as summa cum laude, magna cum laude and cum laude respectively. Up until 2014, graduation occurred every April and October, with commencement exercises being held only in April. The shift in the academic calendar moved graduation dates to June and December, with commencement exercises being done only during the month of June. U.P. Diliman had an average of 3,190 undergraduates, 627 MS graduates, and 73 Ph.D. students graduating every year. The most number of honor graduates came from the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy, followed by the College of Business Administration, College of Engineering, College of Mass Communication and College of Architecture.

Rankings and Accreditation

UP Diliman holds the designation of national university under Republic Act No. 9500, also known as the UP Charter of 2008. As the flagship campus of the University of the Philippines (UP) System, UP Diliman is not subject to accreditation by any local accrediting body, as its academic programs undergo internal evaluation and quality assurance aligned with international standards.

International Rankings

UP Diliman is consistently ranked among the top universities in the Philippines and has been recognized in multiple global university rankings:

• QS World University Rankings 2025 – UP Diliman is ranked =336th globally, making it the highest-ranked Philippine university in the listing.
• Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025 – The university is placed within the 1201–1500 bracket globally.
• US News Best Global Universities 2024 – UP Diliman ranks #1522 worldwide and #559 in Asia.
• EduRank 2025 – UP Diliman is ranked 1,348th globally and 1st in the Philippines, with notable strengths in disciplines such as Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology, Physics, and Liberal Arts & Social Sciences.
• Scimago Institutions Rankings 2024 – UP Diliman is ranked #1 in the Philippines and #1,225 globally, based on research output, innovation, and societal impact.

Subject-Specific Recognitions

UP Diliman has also been acknowledged for excellence in specific academic disciplines:

• Environmental Science – Ranked #1 in the Philippines and #1,386 globally, highlighting its contributions to research in geology, ecology, and oceanography.
• Engineering – Ranked #1 in the Philippines and #1,762 globally, with research strengths in materials science, optical engineering, and chemical engineering.
• Biology – Ranked #1 in the Philippines and #1,801 globally, reflecting robust research output in biochemistry, genetics, and botany.

Webometrics Ranking

In the January 2025 edition of the Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, UP Diliman’s website was ranked first among the nation’s 363 universities, with the UP System placing third and the University of the Philippines Manila in seventh place.

Culture, sports and traditions

The University of the Philippines Diliman community is colloquially known as the “Diliman Republic”, reflecting its distinct identity and vibrant autonomous culture. The university is often described as a microcosm of Philippine society, mirroring the nation’s diverse socio-political landscape and academic freedom. Due to the sheer size of its 493-hectare campus, UP Diliman is the only university in Metro Manila with its own jeepney transportation system. The university operates the “Ikot” and “Toki” jeepneys, which provide affordable and accessible transport within the campus and to nearby areas. The route system is designed to efficiently connect different parts of the university, including academic buildings, dormitories, and administrative offices.  

A UP Ikot jeepney operating inside UP Diliman.

UP Diliman holds a congressional franchise to operate radio and television stations, making it the first university in the country with a licensed TV network and broadcast frequency. The university currently operates:

• DZUP 1602 – An AM radio station that serves as a teaching laboratory for Broadcast Communication studentswhile also functioning as a community-based station providing educational content and public service announcements.
• TVUP – The University of the Philippines Internet Television, an online platform that broadcasts academic discussions, public service programs, and university events.      

These media outlets allow UP Diliman to disseminate information, promote public discourse, and serve as a training ground for students in media and communications.

The university is home to several residential areas, including faculty housing and student dormitories, which contribute to a strong sense of solidarity between students and the wider Diliman community. Many students actively participate in local initiatives, community outreach programs, and socio-political movements, reinforcing the campus’s role as a hub for civic engagement and activism.

The Philippine Collegian is the official student publication of UP Diliman and is recognized for its weekly release schedule, a rarity among tertiary-level campus publications in the Philippines. Known for its investigative journalism, editorial independence, and critical stance on national issues, the publication has historically played a role in shaping campus and national discourse.    

Vinzons Hall, the student activities center of the university.

Student Life

The new Student Union Building, which serves as an extension to the older Vinzons Hall.

Student life at the UP Diliman is characterized by a diverse academic environment, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a strong tradition of civic engagement. With a student population of approximately 24,000, the university offers various opportunities for academic growth, leadership development, and cultural expression. The campus hosts numerous student organizations, cultural traditions, and advocacy initiatives that contribute to its dynamic community.

Academics and Learning Environment

UP Diliman follows a rigorous academic curriculum across its undergraduate and graduate programs, with an emphasis on research, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning. Class sizes vary depending on the course, with larger lecture-based classes in introductory subjects and smaller, seminar-style discussions in upper-level courses. Many programs incorporate fieldwork, laboratory research, and community-based projects, reflecting the university’s commitment to applied learning and social responsibility. Academic freedom is a defining feature of student life, with students encouraged to participate in discourse on national and global issues.

Student Organizations and Extracurricular Activities

UP Diliman recognizes over 200 university-registered organizations, including academic, socio-civic, cultural, athletic, religious, regional, and special-interest groups. These organizations play a central role in student life, providing avenues for professional development, leadership training, and advocacy work. College-based student councils and course organizations serve as representative bodies for specific academic units, while fraternities and sororities maintain a presence through social and community service initiatives.

The University Student Council (USC), elected annually by the student body, serves as the primary representative of student interests. It organizes programs and campaigns addressing student concerns and national issues. UP Diliman has historically been known for its tradition of student activism, with students actively participating in movements related to education policies, human rights, and political reforms.

Student Services and Campus Welfare

UP Diliman provides a range of student services through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (OVCSA), which oversees financial aid programs, student counseling, and dormitory accommodations. The university operates multiple residence halls and dormitories, offering housing options for students from different regions of the country. Student health services are available through the UP Diliman Health Service, which provides medical and mental health support.

Campus security is maintained by the UP Diliman Police and the Campus Safety and Welfare Office. The university also operates shuttle services within the campus and nearby areas, providing transportation for students and faculty.

Activism and Civic Engagement

UP Diliman has been a center for student activism in the Philippines. The campus played a key role in movements such as the First Quarter Storm (1970) and the Diliman Commune (1971), which highlighted student participation in national political discourse. The university continues to be a venue for protests, mobilizations, and public forums addressing contemporary social and political issues. Students frequently engage in discussions on tuition policies, governance, human rights, and environmental advocacy, contributing to a politically active campus culture.

Activist organizations in UP Diliman in front of Palma Hall led a student walkout protest in 2019 commemorating the 47th anniversary of the declaration of martial law.

Campus events

Two of the most-awaited events inside the campus are the Lantern Parade, held in the last week before the Christmas break, and the U.P. Fair, held every February (for 2025, it will be held on April). During the Lantern Parade, the individual colleges as well as groups within U.P.D. create Christmas lanterns and floats and parade around the Academic Oval, culminating in a lengthy program held in front of the Amphitheater capped off by a massive fireworks display. In recent years the event has become so popular even outside of UP that media outlets and major Manila television networks regularly send crews to broadcast the event live.

The U.P. Fair, organized by the UP Diliman University Student Council, is a week-long event held at the Sunken Garden that features evening music concerts, booths, and amusement park rides. Typically falling during the third week of February, students and youth even from outside the U.P. System flock to the nightly concerts.

Student Politics

Student politics at the UP Diliman is characterized by its intensity, historical significance, and national visibility, setting it apart from other Philippine universities. The university has long been a hub for political discourse, activism, and governance,  with student-led movements influencing both campus policies and national affairs.  While student politics exist in other universities across the country, UP Diliman is unique in the depth, frequency, and national impact of its political activities. In contrast to private universities where student government elections tend to focus on campus-specific concerns, UP Diliman’s student movements regularly intersect with national issues, drawing participation from faculty, alumni, and broader activist networks.

Unlike in most other universities where student politics remain largely confined to campus issues, UP Diliman’s University Student Council (USC)  elections, protests, and advocacy campaigns often gain mainstream media coverage and influence public discourse. UP Diliman has played a central role in Philippine student activism, particularly during the First Quarter Storm (1970–1972), the Diliman Commune (1971), and protests against Martial Law. Even in contemporary times, UP Diliman students remain at the forefront of national protest movements, particularly on issues related to democracy, press freedom, and human rights.

UP Diliman has several student political parties representing a wide ideological spectrum, from progressive groups advocating for systemic change to centrist and moderate organizations focusing on student welfare and governance. The annual USC elections are highly contested and often serve as a barometer for national political trends.

UP Diliman’s tradition of activism has also shaped national governance, with many student leaders later becoming political figures, human rights lawyers, and national policymakers.   Despite its long tradition of activism, voter turnout in student council elections has declined in recent years, with only 35.32% participation in 2022, a sharp drop from previous years. Analysts attribute this decline to student disengagement, online learning disruptions, and a shift in political priorities among younger voters. However, national and global political events often revitalize student activism, demonstrating its enduring presence within the UP Diliman community.  

UP Fighting Maroons

Main article: UP Fighting Maroons

UP Fighting Maroons compete in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP)

The UP Fighting Maroons is the name of the collegiate varsity teams of the University of the Philippines Diliman, which play in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), the premiere sports league in the country. The collegiate women's varsity teams are also sometimes called the Lady Maroons. The University of the Philippines Integrated School is the affiliate juniors division high school. They play as the Junior Maroons, formerly the Preps.

U.P. Diliman represents the U.P. System in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and participates in all events. The Fighting Maroons have perennially placed in the top three in the overall points race of the UAAP. One of the most popular athletic teams in the program is the U.P. Pep Squad, a heavyweight in the annual UAAP Cheerdance Competition.

Centennial Celebration

On January 8, 2008, the University of the Philippines System, with 7 constituent universities and 12 campuses offering 258 undergraduate and 438 graduate programs, began its centennial celebration at the Diliman campus.

The university has produced 7 of 17 presidents (8, including Bong Bong Marcos who did not finish his degree in UP Law), 14 chief justices of the Supreme Court, 34 of 35 national scientists and 36 of 57 national artists, 1 Nobel Laureate, and an estimated 300,000 alumni (20,000 doctors, 12,000 lawyers and 30,000 teachers). Of the senators serving in the 2010–2013 term, 14 were from UP.

View of Quezon Hall from the University Avenue during U.P.D.'s 2011 Lantern Parade

Fernando Javier, 100, of Baguio, eldest living U.P. alumnus (Civil Engineering from the University of the Philippines Manila, 1933), began the 100-torch relay at the U.P. academic oval in Diliman, Quezon City. The 99th torchbearer was Michael Reuben Dumlao, youngest, a 6th-grader from the University of the Philippines Integrated School in U.P. Diliman. Then-U.P. president Emerlinda R. Roman, also its first woman president, ignited the centennial cauldron in front of the U.P. Oblation plaza.

The cauldron featured three pillars — representing the university's core values of Excellence, Leadership and Service — and seven flowers representing the constituent universities: U.P. Manila, U.P. Diliman (together with U.P. Pampanga, its extension campus), U.P. Los Baños, U.P. Baguio, U.P. Visayas, U.P. Mindanao, and U.P. Open University.

The centennial celebration came with a massive fund-raising campaign for the U.P. System, and generous donations from alumni came pouring in. One of the largest was the GT-Toyota Asian Cultural (ACC) Center, a gleaming 100-million-peso, one-hectare complex envisioned to be a major hub of campus activity as well as the main site of the Asian Center's different collaborations.

Student organizations

The University of the Philippines Diliman (UP Diliman) hosts a diverse array of fraternities and sororities, each contributing significantly to the university’s culture and producing notable alumni across various sectors. Here’s an overview of some of these Greek organizations and their distinguished members:

Fraternities:

• Alpha Phi Beta (APB): Established in 1939, APB is a law-based fraternity known for producing prominent figures such as Chief Justice Reynato Puno and Governor Francis “Chiz” Escudero.
• Sigma Rho: Founded in 1938, Sigma Rho is one of the oldest law fraternities in Asia. Notable alumni include Justice Antonio Carpio, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, and Senator Sonny Angara.
• Alpha Sigma: This fraternity has contributed significantly to various sectors, with members like former UP Law Dean and current International Criminal Court Judge Raul Pangalangan.
• Alpha Phi Omega (APO): APO is an international service fraternity that has produced leaders such as COMELEC Chairperson Haydee Yorac and former Vice President Jejomar Binay.
• Pi Sigma: Known for its socio-political advocacy, Pi Sigma counts among its alumni Arnel Casanova, former CEO of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.
• Upsilon Sigma Phi: Established in 1918, it is the oldest Greek-letter fraternity in Asia. Its illustrious roster includes President Ferdinand Marcos, President Jose P. Laurel, Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., Senator Richard Gordon, and Senator Francis Pangilinan.
• Tau Alpha: Founded in 1932, Tau Alpha is an engineering fraternity known for its contributions to the engineering field and community service initiatives.
• Beta Sigma: Established in 1946, Beta Sigma has a rich history of fostering brotherhood and excellence among its members.
• Tau Gamma Phi: Also known as the Triskelions’ Grand Fraternity, it was founded in 1968 and is recognized for its emphasis on leadership and community service.

Sororities:

• UP Delta Lambda Sigma: This sorority has nurtured leaders like Senator Pia Cayetano, who has made significant contributions to legislation and women’s rights.
• UP Portia: A sorority based in the UP College of Law, it boasts alumni such as former UP Law Dean Fides Cordero-Tan and Chief Justices Maria Lourdes Sereno and Teresita de Castro.
• Alpha Sigma Nu: The sister sorority of Alpha Sigma fraternity, it has been instrumental in various socio-civic activities within and outside the university.
• Tau Gamma Sigma: Established in 1969, also known as the Triskelions’ Grand Sorority, it has notable members like Associate Justice Rosmari D. Carandang and former Marikina Mayor Marides C. Fernando.

Each of these organizations has a unique initiation process designed to assess a candidate’s emotional stability, physical endurance, and mental capacity, ensuring that new members uphold the values and traditions of their respective fraternities or sororities. These Greek organizations have played pivotal roles in shaping leaders who have significantly impacted Philippine society across various sectors.

The Philippine Collegian

The Philippine Collegian, also known as “Kulê”, is the official student publication of UP Diliman. Established in 1922, it is one of the oldest student publications in the country. The publication is known for its progressive stance, investigative journalism, and active participation in socio-political issues. It played a crucial role during Martial Lawas a medium for student activism.  

Notable alumni

Main article: List of University of the Philippines Diliman people

The University of the Philippines Diliman has numerous notable alumni and faculty. UP graduated many leading figures in the country. In the country's political history, UP has produced former Philippine presidents, José P. Laurel and Ferdinand E. Marcos; former Philippine vice-presidents, Elpidio Quirino, Diosdado Macapagal, Salvador Laurel, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Jejomar Binay and Leni Robredo; statesmen Benigno Aquino Jr., Arturo Tolentino, Gerardo Roxas, and Doy Laurel; prominent jurists such as former chief justices Querube Makalintal, Enrique Fernando; and members of Congress such as Senator Francis Pangilinan and Representative Martin Romualdez. In business, Araneta patriarch and billionaire Jorge L. Araneta graduated from UP.

See also

• DZUP 1602
• Church of the Holy Sacrifice
• Jorge B. Vargas Museum and Filipiniana Research Center

External links

• Media related to University of the Philippines Diliman at Wikimedia Commons
• University of the Philippines system
• University of the Philippines Diliman
• GMA NEWS.TV, video, UP students join the festive launch of the centennial year, 01/08/2008