University News

Apolinario Mabini Shrine reopens at PUP Sta. Mesa

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) marked a significant moment in its institutional history with the formal reopening of the Dambanang Apolinario Mabini on December 10, 2025, at the Sta. Mesa, Manila campus. The event gathered university officials, heritage advocates, and government representatives, all united in honoring one of the nation’s most influential thinkers, Apolinario Mabini.

In attendance was Senator Loren Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Higher and Technical Education and a steadfast champion of Philippine culture. In her remarks, she spoke passionately about Mabini’s influence on the pursuit of independence. She reminded the audience: “Ang pagdiriwang na ito ay hindi lamang pagbubukas ng isang museo—ito ay pagbubukas ng pinto tungo sa mas malalim na pag-unawa sa ating kasaysayan at sa mga prinsipyong humubog sa ating Inang Bayan. Si Apolinario Mabini, ang dakilang lumpo at utak ng rebolusyon, ay hindi nabuhay sa komportableng panahon—sinulat niya ang direksyon ng bansa sa gitna ng digmaan, kolonyalismo, at personal na sakripisyo.” (This celebration is not merely the opening of a museum—it is the opening of a door toward a deeper understanding of our history and the principles that shaped our Motherland. Apolinario Mabini, the sublime paralytic and the brain of the revolution, did not live in comfortable times—he shaped the direction of the nation amid war, colonialism, and personal sacrifice.)

University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi also expressed deep appreciation to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) for leading the structural and curatorial rehabilitation of the shrine. He highlighted how revitalizing such historical spaces enables the University to strengthen its academic and cultural mission.

In response, NHCP Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose, Jr., spoke about the role of the newly restored museum. For him, the space represents more than a collection of relics. He noted: “Ang bagong museo ay hindi lamang isang espasyo na nagpapakita ng mga bagay na ginamit noon ni Mabini—ito ay isang pook ng pagtatanong at pagninilay.” (The new museum is not merely a space that displays Mabini’s belongings—it is a place for inquiry and reflection.)

Meanwhile, Executive Vice President Alberto C. Guillo shared three guiding principles that every Filipino should uphold—values Mabini himself lived by. Guillo quoted: “Una, ibigin mo si Bathala at ang iyong dangal ng higit sa lahat ng bagay. Pangalawa, sambahin mo ang Diyos sa paraang nais ng iyong kalooban. Pangatlo, alagaan ang mga natatanging kakayahan na ipinagkaloob sa’yo ng Diyos.” (First, love God and your honor above all things. Second, worship God in the manner your conscience desires. Third, nurture the unique abilities that God has given you.)

VP Guillo emphasized that Mabini’s profound devotion and moral integrity continue to inspire generations, making the preservation of the shrine essential to keeping his legacy alive.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed sense of pride as guests explored the newly opened museum. The Apolinario Mabini Shrine now welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., inviting the public to engage with history in a meaningful and reflective environment.

Beyond its cultural significance, the reopening of the shrine aligns with the University’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By safeguarding national heritage and creating accessible learning spaces, PUP strengthens its role in promoting inclusive education, fostering community identity, and building strategic collaborations with institutions dedicated to historical preservation. The project underscores PUP’s dedication to shaping a society that honors its past while working toward a sustainable and informed future.