Expansion and Educational Objectives
- During the 1917-1918 school year, PSC introduced night classes to help working youth pursue further education, targeting poor students.
Institutional Conversions and Development
- On June 21, 1953, the PSC was converted into the Philippine College of Commerce (PCC) through Republic Act No. 788.
- On April 1, 1978, PCC was transformed into the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) under Presidential Decree No. 1341.
Regional Branches and Decentralization
- Section 11 of P.D. No. 1341 mandates PUP to expand its programs nationwide via regional branches.
- Consequently, PUP established 12 off-campus branches and extension units in various provinces including Taguig, CALABARZON, Bataan, Bulacan, and Camarines Sur.
Innovations in Distance Education
- In 1990, PUP pioneered the first "Open University" or distance education program in the country despite limited resources.
- The first cohort of distance education graduates completed their studies in 1995.
Current Status and Impact
- PUP serves approximately 55,000 students, making it one of the largest tertiary institutions in the Philippines.
- Graduates of PUP are employed widely in public service, private enterprises, and industries both domestically and internationally.
- The university has established itself as a premier state university with significant contributions to education and employment.
Declaration of Centenary Period
- The President of the Philippines officially declared the period from October 1, 2003, to October 31, 2004, as the Centennial Anniversary of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.
- This declaration was made to recognize and commemorate the outstanding service and history of the institution.
Formalities of Proclamation
- The proclamation was signed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Executive Secretary Alberto G. Romulo.
- The declaration was executed in Manila on October 6, 2003, and the Republic seal was affixed to formalize the occasion.