Contents

1.0 THE UNIVERSITY AS A COMMUNITY OF SCHOLARS

The University of the Philippines (UP) is the sole national university of the country. It is a public and secular institution of higher learning mandated to perform its unique and distinctive leadership in higher education and development. It is a community of scholars dedicated to the search for truth and knowledge as well as the development of future leaders. [Republic Act No. 9500 (23 July 2007), Sec. 3] In the words of former UP President Carlos P. Romulo:

 

Ours is a university of the people, and therefore, it has no particular political affiliation. It is a secular university, and therefore, it has no religious sectarian adherence. Its mission is to constantly search for knowledge. Scholarship is its primordial concern, research its indispensable arm and unfailing source of strength. It believes in and values above all things else human freedom without which there can be no creative ingenuity that can make of knowledge a blessing for society. . [Epistola in Alfonso, 1985, p. 398]

 

UP Diliman, as a constituent university (CU) of the UP System, was established on 26 April 1982. [954th UP Board of Regents Meeting (22 October 1982)] As of 2016, it has the greatest number of students, accounting for half of all UP students, and the biggest faculty complement among the CUs. UP Diliman has the most number of degree-granting units which offer the widest range of academic programs in the undergraduate and graduate levels in the UP System, of which it also has the largest library collection.

UP Diliman is recognized for advancing the frontiers of knowledge in engineering, the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the arts and humanities, through high-quality education, research, creative work, and extension programs. For Calendar Year (CY) 2016 – 2018, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) of the Philippines declared 26 Centers of Excellence in UP Diliman in the following fields: Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geology, Marine Science, Mathematics, Physics, Anthropology, Foreign Language, History, Political Science, Psychology, Broadcasting, Communication Research, Journalism, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Geodetic Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, English, Literature, Library and Information Science, Social Work, Statistics, and Teacher Education. [CHED Memorandum Order No. 38, s. 2015; CHED Memorandum Order No. 15, s. 2016]

With its vast creative and scientific resources, UP Diliman pioneers the growth of science and technology in the country, continues to shape Philippine culture and the arts, and exercises leadership in responding to the needs of the nation and the global community for sustainable development and social transformation. UP Diliman has extensive alliances with international institutions of higher learning for joint academic programs, research, creative work, and student and faculty exchange.

  • 1.1 MISSION OF THE UNIVERSITY

    As the nation’s leading institution devoted to higher education, research, and community service, UP bears a special responsibility towards the country. To strengthen UP’s role in national development and social progress, it was reorganized into the University of the Philippines System in 1972. Through its pursuit of truth and commitment to the highest standards of excellence in the concerted application of science, technology, the social sciences, and the arts, letters, and humanities to solving the problems of society and uplifting the human condition, UP plays an integral role in national development. [828th UP BOR Meeting (21 December 1972)]

    • 1.1.1 Expectations of the University

      The UP Charter sets down more clearly what are expected of UP, given its designation as the country’s sole national university. Specifically, the University is expected to: [Rep. Act No. 9500 (23 July 2007), Sec. 3]

      1.1.1.1

      Lead in setting academic standards and initiating innovations in teaching, research and faculty development in philosophy, the arts and humanities, the social sciences, the professions and engineering, natural sciences, mathematics, and technology; and maintain centers of excellence in such disciplines and professions;

       

      1.1.1.2

      Serve as a graduate university by providing advanced studies and specialization for scholars, scientists, writers, artists and professionals, especially those who serve on the faculty of state and private colleges and universities;

      1.1.1.3

      Serve as a research university in various fields of expertise and specialization by conducting basic and applied research and development, and promoting research in various colleges and universities, and contributing to the dissemination and application of knowledge;

      1.1.1.4

      Lead as a public service university by providing various forms of community, public, and volunteer service, as well as scholarly and technical assistance to the government, the private sector, and civil society while maintaining its standards of excellence;

      1.1.1.5

      Protect and promote the professional and economic rights and welfare of its academic and non-academic personnel;

      1.1.1.6

      Provide opportunities for training and learning in leadership, responsible citizenship, and the development of democratic values, institutions and practice through academic and non-academic programs, including sports and the enhancement of nationalism and national identity;

      1.1.1.7

      Serve as a regional and global university in cooperation with international and scientific unions, networks of universities, scholarly and professional associations in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world; and

      1.1.1.8

      Provide democratic governance in the University based on collegiality, representation, accountability, transparency, and active participation of its constituents, and promote the holding of forums for students, faculty, research, extension and professional staff (REPS), administrative staff, and alumni to discuss non-academic issues affecting the University.

  • 1.2 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

    Academic freedom and inclusive education are two fundamental values which guide the University’s choices and decisions regarding its academic programs.

    These two values underlie several core principles that the University subscribes to, namely, academic excellence, commitment to national development, social responsibility, and gender empowerment and equality. They inform all University concerns, from curricular programs and pedagogy to student and faculty welfare services, among others.

    • 1.2.1 Academic Freedom

      Academic freedom as a value is enshrined in the Philippine Constitution. Art. XIV Sec. 5 (2) of the Constitution states: “Academic freedom shall be enjoyed in all institutions of higher learning.”

      The UP Charter (Rep. Act No. 9500) declares academic freedom as one of the rights and responsibilities of the University: “The national university has the right and responsibility to exercise academic freedom.” [Rep. Act. No. 9500 (23 July 2007), Sec. 5]

      Faculty members of the University are expected to uphold academic freedom inviolate in the performance of their roles and responsibilities as teachers and scholars with integrity, honesty, creativity, propriety, fairness, and devotion. [UP Faculty Code of Ethics, approved at the 63rd University Council Meeting (08 December 1998) and noted at the 1128th UP BOR Meeting (28 January 1999)]

      Academic freedom is the right of teachers to teach the subject of their specialization according to their best lights; to hold, in other subjects, such ideas as they believe sincerely to be right; and to express their opinions on public questions in a manner that does not interfere with their duties as a member of the faculty or render them negative in their loyalty to the school, college, or university that employs them. Within this specific framework, the following principles affirming academic freedom are hereby declared: [The Revised Code of the University of the Philippines (1961), Art. 176]

       

      1.2.1.1

      UP does not impose any limitation upon the teachers’ freedom in the exposition of their own subject in the classroom or in addresses and publications;

      1.2.1.2

      UP does not place any restraint upon the teachers’ freedom in the choice of subjects for research and investigation undertaken on their own initiative;

      1.2.1.3

      UP recognizes that teachers, in speaking or writing outside of the institution on subjects beyond the scope of their own field of study, is entitled to the same freedom and are subject to the same responsibilities as attached to all other citizens but in added measure; and

      1.2.1.4

      If the conduct of teachers in their classroom or elsewhere should give rise to doubts concerning their fitness for their position, the question should in all cases be submitted first to a committee of the faculty, and in no case should any member of the teaching staff be dismissed before the normal termination of the period of appointment without full and open hearing before the Board of Regents, should the teacher desires it, and only upon sufficient notice.

       

      Further, UP encourages the faculty’s full freedom in research and in the publication of their results subject to the adequate performance of their other academic duties. [Revised Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy of the University of the Philippines System, approved at the 1269th UP BOR Meeting (03 June 2011)]

      However, academic freedom is both a right and a responsibility. As such, UP has also declared a set of principles that guard against the abuse of academic freedom. (See Chapter 18)

    • 1.2.2 Inclusive Education

      The UP Charter mandates the University to ensure inclusive education; it states that UP will not discriminate anyone “by reason solely of age, gender, nationality, religious belief, economic status, ethnicity, physical disability, or political opinion or affiliation.” [Rep. Act No. 9500 (23 July 2007), Sec. 9]

      To fulfill this mandate, UP takes affirmative steps which may take the form of an alternative and equitable admissions process to enhance the access of disadvantaged students to its programs and services. Disadvantaged students include indigenous peoples, poor and deserving students, including but not limited to valedictorians and salutatorians of public high schools, and students from depressed areas.

      UP recognizes the separation of Church and State. It guarantees religious freedom and does not discriminate based on religion. [Rep. Act No. 9500, Sec. 9]

    • 1.2.3 Academic Excellence

      UP has the responsibility to maintain and enhance its high academic standards in the performance of its functions of instruction, research and extension, and public service [Rep. Act No. 9500, Sec. 6] and UP faculty members are expected to instill in students the passion for learning, the discipline attendant to the pursuit of excellence, intellectual honesty, and respect for the humane [UP Faculty Code of Ethics, approved at the at the 63rd University Council Meeting (08 December 1998) and noted at the 1128th UP BOR Meeting (28 January 1999)].

    • 1.2.4 Commitment to National Development

      UP will continuously harness the expertise of the members of its community and other individuals to regularly study the state of the nation in relation to its quest for national development in the primary areas of politics and economics, among others, identify key concerns, formulate responsive policies regarding these concerns, and give advice and recommendations to Congress and the President of the Philippines.

      The Congress of the Republic of the Philippines, the Supreme Court and other lower courts, other government agencies and instrumentalities as well as any constitutional body may request UP to conduct research or provide advice on any matter involving public policy. The budget for such research or request for advice comes from the appropriation of these public agencies. [Rep. Act No. 9500 (23 July 2007), Sec. 7]

    • 1.2.5 Social Responsibility

      UP is committed to serve the Filipino nation and humanity. It carries out its obligation to pursue universal principles with due attention to the needs of the Filipino people and their aspirations for social progress and transformation. As a way of instilling social responsibility among its students, the University may provide venues for student volunteerism. [Rep. Act No. 9500 (23 July 2007), Sec. 8]

    • 1.2.6 Gender Empowerment and Equality

      UP is committed to provide an intellectual, healthy, inclusive environment that promotes gender equality. It adopts gender mainstreaming as a strategy and strictly implements policies, guidelines, rules, and procedures which are gender-responsive, gender-sensitive and culture-sensitive to the dynamics of interaction among all members of the academic community. [Guidelines on Promoting Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality in the University of the Philippines, approved at the 1309th UP BOR Meeting (22 July 2015)]

  • 1.3 UNIVERSITY SYMBOLS

    • 1.3.1 University Seal

      UP is represented by the University seal. The Board of Regents ruled that the University seal has the following design (see Fig. 1-1): [77th UP BOR Meeting (25 February 1913); Revised Code of the University of the Philippines (1961), Art. 7]

       

      Fig. 1‑1. The University Seal

       

      1.3.1.1

      Description. The seal is to be 2-1/2 inches in diameter (1-3/4 inches within the circle) and shall have the inscription “University of the Philippines” at the top, “1908” at the bottom. 

      1.3.1.2

      University seal elements. The following elements shall be inside the 2-inch circle: 

      1.3.1.2.1

      The eagle with outstretched wings;

      1.3.1.2.2

      The shield with the three (3) icons representing the different fields of specialization in the University; and 

      1.3.1.2.3

      The whole name of the University and the year it is founded. 

       

      (The detailed guidelines on the use of the University seal and other University brand elements are found in the UP Visual Identity Guidebook (UP VIG) approved by the Board of Regents at its 1324th meeting held on 26 January 2017.)
       

    • 1.3.2 The Oblation

      The Oblation, a sculpture in the round depicting a nude young man with his head gazing upward and arms outstretched in quiet offering, symbolizes the University’s commitment to serve the people and the selfless offering of oneself to the nation. The original Oblation, unveiled in 1939, was created by National Artist in Visual Arts (Sculpture) Guillermo E. Tolentino.

      As one of the most important UP icons, the Oblation is found in all CUs of the UP System. In UP Diliman, the Oblation (see Fig. 1-2) is in the Oblation Plaza, in front of Quezon Hall. It faces the University Avenue. The original Oblation statue is at the UP Diliman Main Library (Gonzalez Hall).

      The use of the Oblation in communication materials and presentation is governed by guidelines found in the UP VIG.

       

      Fig. 1‑2.  The UP Diliman Oblation

    • 1.3.3 The Sablay

      The Sablay (see Fig. 1-3) is UP’s official academic costume. First introduced as an academic costume in the 1990, it was officially adopted in 2000 and replaced the traditional mortarboard (cap) and toga worn in previous academic ceremonies. The word “sablay” originally refers to an indigenous loose garment hung on a shoulder that is traditionally used for formal occasions. [72nd University Council (UC) Meeting (06 December 2000); UP Diliman Executive Committee Meeting (21 February 2001); 73rd UC Meeting (28 February 2001)]

       

       

      Fig. 1‑3. The Sablay

       

      The Sablay gets its inspiration from the Muslim malong but incorporates various traditional elements found in other Philippine cultures. Running through the Sablay are geometric motifs from indigenous Philippine communities. The motifs border the initials of the University interpreted in baybayin characters, the ancient Philippine script. Alternating with the initials of UP is an ukkit or ukir as an accent. The basic colors use maroon and forest green, the official colors of UP. [Handbook on Protocol in the University of the Philippines, University of the Philippines-Office of the Secretary of the University (2005)]

      The Sablay is worn during recognition programs, commencement exercises, investiture ceremonies of Chancellors and Presidents, awarding of honoris causa, other academic activities requiring the use of the academic costume, and official photo taking. As a sign of respect for the official academic costume of UP, formal clothing should always be worn with the Sablay.

      The following dress styles are recommended: [Office of the Chancellor Memorandum No. ERR-04023 (23 February 2004)]

      1.3.3.1    Dress style for females

      1.3.3.1.1    Dress color: Ecru/Beige/Cream

      1.3.3.1.2    Dress style: Preferably with sleeves; if sleeveless, a shawl and bolero could be worn

      1.3.3.1.3    Dress length: Any length below the knee up to the ankle 

      1.3.3.1.4    Shoe style: Formal shoes

      1.3.3.2    Dress style for males

      1.3.3.2.1    Barong top:  Ecru/Beige/Cream

      1.3.3.2.2    Pants: Dark color, preferably black

      1.3.3.2.3    Shoes and socks: Dark color, preferably black
       

    • 1.3.4 The University Hymn

      UP Beloved (see Fig. 1-4) is a tale of two competitions which were both held in 1917. The first contest, won by Teogenes Velez, selected the lyrics that could best express the UP spirit. The poem by Velez, then a Liberal Arts student, was declared the winner for its ability to touch the heart and soul of every UP student and alumnus. The composition of Nicanor Abelardo, then a Music major, won the other contest to set the poem to music. Since then, UP Beloved has been sung or played as the University Hymn.

      UP Naming Mahal, meanwhile, is a composite poem culled from translation entries received by a screening committee which found none of them to be, in full, satisfactory. The entries came from Tomas N. Aguirre, Carlito R. Barril, Conrado Galang, C.P. Habito, Bienvenido T. Miranda, Jose L. Pelayo, Hilarion R. Rubio, and Severino S. Tabios.

      [Handbook on Protocol in the University of the Philippines, University of the Philippines-Office of the Secretary of the University (2005)]

       

      Fig. 1‑4. UP Beloved

    • 1.3.5 The Mace

      The Mace (see Fig. 1-5) is a heavy staff made of wood and metal and graced by the seal of the University of the Philippines. The Mace symbolizes the authority of the University President and the Chancellor of the constituent unit. The Mace occupies prominent place during such activities as commencement and investiture ceremonies. Facing the audience, the President’s Mace is placed at the right side of the stage, while the Chancellor’s Mace is placed at the left side of the stage. [Handbook on Protocol in the University of the Philippines, University of the Philippines-Office of the Secretary of the University (2005)]

       

       

      Fig. 1‑5. The UP President’s Mace (left) and the UP Diliman Chancellor’s Mace (right)

    • 1.3.6 The Medallion

      The Medallion (see Fig. 1-6) symbolizes UP’s honor and its tradition of academic excellence. The President’s Medallion is a replica of the UP seal. Its chain interconnects smaller replicas of the UP seal. The Chancellor’s Medallion shows a replica of the Oblation at its center. The Medallion is worn over the Sablay during such rites as commencement and President’s and Chancellor’s investiture. [Handbook on Protocol in the University of the Philippines, University of the Philippines-Office of the Secretary of the University (2005)]

       

      Fig. 1‑6. The medallions of the UP President (left) and the UP Diliman Chancellor (right)

    • 1.3.7 The UP Flag

      The top and bottom half of the UP Flag (see Fig 1-7) is, respectively, maroon and forest green in color. At the center of the flag is the UP seal, with green inscription of its name in full around the seal. To observers facing a building, the UP flag is flown to their right side while the Philippine flag is to their left side. [Handbook on Protocol in the University of the Philippines, University of the Philippines-Office of the Secretary of the University (2005)]

       

      Fig. 1‑7. The UP Flag

       

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