Venue
The Learning Commons, University of the Philippines Diliman, Diliman, Quezon City
Around UP Diliman
UP Diliman
The University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) serves as the flagship campus of the national university system, spanning 493 hectares of lush, tree-lined greenery in Quezon City. Known as the “green lung” of the metro, the campus is centered around the iconic Academic Oval, where centuries-old acacia trees provide a canopy for students, joggers, and visitors alike. As a premier center for research, culture, and the arts, UPD is home to numerous National Historical Landmarks, including the iconic Oblation statue and the circular Parish of the Holy Sacrifice, reflecting its deep-seated commitment to academic excellence and national service.
For visitors, the campus offers a unique blend of scholarly atmosphere and a serene public park. Beyond its prestigious colleges, UPD is a vibrant cultural hub where one can explore the Vargas Museum’s art collections, enjoy street food at the famous Area 2, or relax at the Sunken Garden. The campus operates as an open community that fosters a spirit of free expression and intellectual rigor, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the intersection of Philippine history, biodiversity, and the nation’s brightest minds.
Places to Visit
The Oblation Plaza
Oblation Plaza serves as the university’s premier ceremonial gateway, anchored by the iconic Oblation statue created by National Artist Guillermo Tolentino. Set against the neoclassical backdrop of Quezon Hall, the plaza symbolizes the university’s core values of selfless service and academic freedom. As the traditional site for major events like the Lantern Parade and university commencement, this open-air landmark marks the transition from the bustling city into the serene, scholarly atmosphere of the Academic Oval.
UP Academic Oval
The Academic Oval is a 2.2-kilometer loop that serves as the iconic heart of the UP Diliman campus, celebrated for its majestic canopy of over 500 century-old Acacia trees. This tranquil space in Quezon City provides a serene sanctuary where the inner lane is strictly reserved for joggers, cyclists, and pedestrians to enjoy the fresh air and heritage architecture. Connecting major landmarks like the Sunken Garden and the university’s historic colleges, the Oval is a vibrant community hub where the campus’s natural beauty and intellectual spirit converge.
Uplift
The Uplift statue, popularly known by students as the “female Oblation,” is a striking bronze monument by sculptor Ferdinand Cacnio located in front of the Villamor Hall. It depicts a levitating female figure with her hair flowing backward and arms outstretched, symbolizing the soul’s ascent toward enlightenment and the university’s commitment to nurturing the human spirit. While its suspended pose has sparked creative campus legends and comparisons to its more famous male counterpart, the statue serves as a modern tribute to the empowerment of women and the continuous elevation of Philippine art and culture.
For other sites of interests, see here or here.
Where to Eat
For visitors looking to experience the authentic soul of the university, the UP Diliman food scene is an essential stop, centered largely on the bustling Area 2 along J.P. Laurel Street. This residential-turned-commercial strip serves as a vibrant outdoor food court where you can find everything from Snack Shack’s famous charcoal-grilled burgers and Sisko’s savory sisig to Jess Jr.’s signature Nasi Goreng and the hearty wings at Chicken City. A staple for any hungry visitor is Iskomai, known for its budget-friendly siomai-and-rice combo that has fueled generations of locals. No tour is complete without trying the campus-famous fruit shakes—massive, refreshing blends of mango or avocado that are a favorite for beating the heat. As you explore further, you’ll encounter the iconic green and red kiosks scattered near the Academic Oval and major colleges; these stalls are legendary for serving “campus-style” pancit canton and street food classics like fishballs and kwek-kwek. Whether you’re enjoying a sit-down meal in the heart of Area 2 or grabbing a quick snack from a sidewalk vendor, the diverse flavors and welcoming, laid-back atmosphere of the campus offer a delicious and budget-friendly glimpse into the university’s unique culture.
Accommodations
Here is a list of accommodations inside or near the university. Please note that the given rates may not be updated and some of the accommodations in the list might not be available depending on the season. The choices of accommodations include the following:
The University Hotel serves as a serene and convenient retreat located right within the heart of the UP Diliman campus. This academic-themed lodging caters to visiting scholars, alumni, and campus guests, offering a quiet atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city outside. Beyond its guest rooms, the hotel is a popular community hub known for its peaceful dining area and versatile function rooms often used for university seminars and intimate gatherings. Its proximity to the Academic Oval and major colleges makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the university’s sprawling greenery and heritage landmarks.
The NISMED Hostel, managed by the National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development, offers a quiet and academic-focused stay nestled within a peaceful corner of the UP Diliman campus. This modest yet comfortable facility is primarily designed to accommodate educators, researchers, and participants of the institute’s various workshops and training programs, though it remains open to other university guests seeking a budget-friendly and conducive environment. Its strategic location provides easy access to the northern cluster of science colleges and research institutes, making it a preferred choice for those who value proximity to their academic engagements while enjoying the serene, green surroundings typical of the campus.
UP Balay Internasyonal, often referred to as Kapit-balay, is a dedicated serviced apartment complex within the UP Diliman campus designed to provide a comfortable home for international scholars, exchange students, and visiting faculty. This residential hub fosters a diverse and multicultural environment, offering fully furnished units that cater to both short-term stays and long-term academic engagements. Strategically located near the university’s academic core, it allows residents to easily transition between their research and a peaceful living space surrounded by the campus’s signature greenery. The facility is well-regarded for its role in supporting the university’s internationalization efforts by providing a secure and hospitable base for the global academic community.