#InquirerSeven Most photogenic places in UST

By: Christine Fusio, Julia Medina, Kate Reyes, Regina Lintag - @inquirerdotnet

Inquirer Volunteer Corps / 10:04 AM April 10, 2016

UST Main building. INQURIER FILE PHOTO

The more than 400 year old campus of University of Santo Tomas was chosen as the venue for the historic vice-presidential debate initiated by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and organized by its media partners.

Known as the oldest university in Asia, UST has a rich history clearly seen within its campus. Here is the #InquirerSeven most photogenic places in UST according to students themselves.

1. The Arch of the Centuries

The UST Arch of the centuries. PHOTO BY JAMIE TURALBA

One of the most photogenic places around the University of Santo Tomas (UST) is the Arch of the Centuries. Originally erected in 1680 in Intramuros, the Arch continues to witness the milestones of every freshman and graduating student of the university. Making it more photogenic is its national recognition. Who would not want a good selfie in front of a National Cultural Treasure?

2. UST Chapel: Santissimo Rosario Parish Church

A place for peace, solitude and prayers. The Santissimo Rosario Parish Church, housed by the Central Seminary Building, is considered to be a photogenic place for its fine interior and intricate architecture.

3. Main Building

Often mistaken for a church, the UST Main Building, designed by Fr. Roque Ruaño, O.P., is a recognized National Cultural Treasure and the first earthquake-resistant building in the country. During the Second World War, it was used as an internment camp for non-Filipino hostages. The building’s renaissance revival architecture adds to its archaic charisma, making it as one of the best landmarks known in the Philippines.

4. Fountain of Knowledge

This fountain features a sculpture of a lady standing on top of a lotus flower while holding a globe. Considered as one of the National Cultural Treasures in the university, the Fountain of Knowledge is a symbol of experience as a true provider of knowledge and right judgment.

5. Plaza Benavides/Benavides Monument

Sculpted by Tony Noel in 1889, this bronze statue of the university’s founder, Miguel de Benavides, O.P., was originally placed in the first campus of UST in Intramuros until 1945. Today, it stands on a granite pedestal in front of the Main Building, perfect for a two-in-one historical photo opportunity for history buffs.

6. UST Grandstand

The green grass filled with students throwing a frisbee, playing volleyball or football or practicing their dance moves is a picture perfect moment for many. The events held on these grounds are a testament to some of the historical episodes our country, such as the Papal visits of 1970, 1981, 1995 and 2015, and UST’s annual Paskuhan fests.

7. Quadricentennial Square

This square, locally known as QPark, gives students an opportunity for a picture with Piolo Pascual. Yes, you heard that right. He is one of the four models in Ramon Orlina’s “Tetra Global” sculpture erected in this park (others include his daughter Monina, beauty queen Charlene Gonzales and former UST Rector Fr. Rolando de la Rosa, O.P.). QPark also holds a number of sheds perfect for study group sessions. Senior students dream of playing around in the interactive fountain found here before they graduate.