In celebration of the 118th foundation anniversary of the University of the Philippines, we are proud to present a special exhibition that narrates the university’s transformation and growth. Through a collection of maps and archival photographs, visitors are invited to explore the early years of UP Manila and discover how a Filipino university began to take shape both in principle and in place.

Visit the Mapping Excellence and Honor: UP’s First Campus exhibit!

Museum of a History of Ideas

June 16–19, 2026

Open daily to the public, 8 AM to 5 PM

About the Exhibit

This exhibit presents a collection of historical maps and photographs that trace the origins and development of the first campus of the University of the Philippines in Manila. Through the lens of mapping, it follows the transformation of physical space into a center of academic excellence, revealing how geography, history, and institutional identity intersect and evolve over time.

More than a visual display, the exhibit highlights the dynamic relationship between geography and history. It underscores the role of the University of the Philippines as a national institution committed to public service. Each map serves not only as a representation of place, but also as a reflection of aspirations, transitions, and the continuing journey toward excellence and honor. “Mapping Excellence and Honor” ultimately tells a story of place-making—of how a university’s physical beginnings in Manila became foundational to its enduring mission of serving the nation.