10 Schools in the Philippines with Stunning Architectural Structures

The Philippines is abundant in structures that are admirable. From historical churches that reveal beliefs and culture, massive buildings that represent growth in the economy, to commercial establishments that initiate fun, bonding, and leisure, we can proudly say that the history of Philippine architecture is perfectly interesting.

Schools are home to buildings, classrooms, and facilities that contribute to the growth of the students. However, due to busy schedules and extra-curricular activities, it is easy for us to overlook structures that are impressive.

Here are some of the schools with stunning architectural structures:

1. University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon Hall

The University of the Philippines Quezon Hall was designed by Juan Nakpil, the first architect to receive the National Artist award in 1973. It was built in 1950 after the transfer of UP from Padre Faura, Manila to Diliman, Quezon City. Aside from being the home of the Oblation, it also houses many of the administrative offices for the entire University. Nakpil based the peristyle concept of the Hall to the work of architect Eliel Saarinen at the Cranbook Art Museum in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

2. University of Santo Tomas Main Building

The University of Santo Tomas Main Building was designed by a Dominican priest-engineer, Fr. Roque Ruaño. It is the first earthquake-resistant building in the Philippines. Plans for its construction began in 1920, but the construction began 4 years later after some fine tunings were made on its design criteria so it would be able to withstand powerful earthquakes. Its doors were finally opened to the students in 1927.

3. De La Salle University Henry Sy, Sr. Hall

The De La Salle University Henry Sy, Sr. Hall was designed by the renowned architectural firm Leandro V. Locsin Partners, Architects. It was blessed in 2012 to commemorate the University’s centenary. Consisting of 14 eco-friendly learning spaces and function areas, the Hall not only reveals DLSU’s commitment to education but also to environmental responsibility. It features a green roof, solar panels, a rainwater collection system, and a water re-use system.

4. De La Salle College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts Campus

The School of Design and Arts Campus was designed by Lor Calma Design and Associates, with Eduardo Calma as the design principal. The building is a tribute to creativity and modern teaching environment. It features a contemporary design made of glass, steel, and concrete. The 14-storey academic complex was opened in May 2007.

5. Far Eastern University Nicanor Reyes Hall

The Nicanor Reyes Hall is the flagship structure of Far Eastern University. It is part of the five buildings in the University complex designed by Pablo Antonio, the second architect to receive the National Artist award in 1976. The Hall was considered as the largest body of work done in classic Philippine Art Deco style in Manila.

6. Central Philippine University Henry Luce III Library

The Central Philippine University Main Library was constructed and funded through the Henry Luce Foundation. It is the biggest library in the Western Visayas and one of the largest in the Philippines in terms of volumes and holdings. Its structure is reminiscent of an Indonesian or Malayan style of house built on palm leaves and bamboo.

7. Mapua Institute of Technology Intramuros Campus

The Mapua Institute of Technology was established by Don Tomas Mapua, the Philippines’ first registered architect, in January 1925. It is the biggest engineering school in the country. He won the Manila Cultural Award for Architecture in 1964. The campus consists of 7 interconnected buildings that are aesthetically pleasing. These structures reveal history enhanced by the panoramic view of the Intramuros.

8. Ateneo de Manila University the Church of the Gesù

The Roman Catholic Church of the Ateneo de Manila University campus was designed by Architects Jose Pedro Recio and Carmelo Casas. The massive triangular structure of the edifice symbolizes the Holy trinity and the three-fold mission and vision of the school. In September 2001, the cornerstone of the church was laid and blessed and in 2002, the dedication liturgy for was celebrated by Cardinal Jaime Sin.

9. Mariano Marcos State University

The University was established in January 1978. MMSU was named after Mariano Marcos, the father of former President Ferdinand Marcos. The structure features thick and high pillars, fountains, and sunken garden that make its façade courtyard-like.

10. Silliman University Hall

Silliman Hall is the oldest standing American structure in the Philippines. Its architecture is resonant of the 19^th century stick style designs of American buildings. The present structure was built in 1909 as an addition to the original construction built in 1902, now demolished. It now serves as SU’s Anthropology Museum.

Whether modern or traditional architectural designs, Philippines has structures that are undeniably world-class and timeless.

Do you know other schools that make you go “wow!” with its design? Share it with us in the comments section.