Built into Manila: Feu’S 98-Year Legacy of Education, Heritage, and Civic Responsibility 

Along Nicanor Reyes Street, the Art Deco buildings of Far Eastern University (FEU) have stood through decades of change in Manila. Their geometric façades and sweeping lines form one of the most recognizable campuses in the University Belt, serving not only as classrooms and offices but also as enduring landmarks in the city’s architectural landscape. 

FEU is home to the country’s largest ensemble of Art Deco buildings. Six of these structures, designed by National Artist for Architecture Pablo Antonio and his son Pablo Jr., have been declared National Cultural Treasures. Rather than standing as monuments to a bygone period, they remain in active use, making architectural preservation part of the school community’s everyday experience. 

Founded in 1928, FEU has been in the heart of Manila for 98 years. Its presence has helped define the character of the city, while generations of students have passed through its classrooms during periods of reconstruction, urban growth, and social change. 

That history gave wider context to a distinction conferred on June 18, when FEU received the Natatanging Tagapagbayad ng Buwis para sa Negosyo (Korporasyon) award during the Gawad Manileño 2026 at the Metropolitan Theater. Held as part of Manila’s 455th founding anniversary celebration, the awards recognized individuals and organizations whose dedication and service support the capital’s development. 

In his remarks, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso emphasized that building a city is a shared responsibility. “A great city is not built by the government alone; it is built by the citizens who choose to care,” he said. 

FEU was the only university represented among the corporate awardees during the ceremony. Dr. Rowena Capulong Reyes, FEU Vice President for Corporate Affairs, accepted the recognition. 

“[Our] history has always been closely linked with the history of Manila,” Reyes said. “For almost 100 years, FEU has grown alongside the city and its people. We are honored by this distinction and remain committed to contributing to Manila through education, culture, community engagement, and nation-building.” 

The award draws attention to a form of civic participation less immediately visible than a heritage campus or an educational legacy. Fulfilling its financial obligations allows an institution to take part in the city’s development while demonstrating fiscal responsibility, accountability, and responsible corporate citizenship. 

FEU Chief Finance Officer Rosanna Salcedo said the recognition reflects the university’s approach to financial stewardship. 

“This recognition reflects FEU’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and good governance. It underscores the university’s strong financial stewardship, integrity, and accountability, while demonstrating that FEU not only educates future leaders but also

actively contributes to the sustainable growth and progress of the community it serves.” Salcedo said. 

FEU will mark its centennial in 2028. The milestone will commemorate not only a century of education, but also a century since the university made Manila its home and became part of the city’s continuing life.