Why go
The building connects the university’s early Manila campus to changes in health care, wartime administration and dental education. Its changing uses make the structure itself part of the subject, alongside the museum’s account of ideas associated with the University of the Philippines. It is most useful to readers interested in institutional history.
The full story
Built in 1931, this was among the early buildings of the University of the Philippines Manila campus. Its neoclassical design followed the language of other university buildings there. The structure first served as the university infirmary, a role it held until 1947. During the Second World War, university administrative offices used it as an emergency headquarters. The College of Dentistry moved in during 1959, and an annex was added behind it in 1961. The college left for a new building at Pedro Gil Street and Taft Avenue in 2002. Restoration toward the original building began in 2009. The museum grew from a university centennial project and uses the site to consider ideas tied to UP’s formation and public role. Those layers explain why its former rooms matter even apart from any individual display.
Useful to know
- Check UP Manila’s current museum information before making a dedicated trip; public admission has not been established.