ON THIS day 97 years ago, the Varsitarian (“V”), the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and the most influential student publication in the Philippines, was founded.
Three years before its centennial, the “V” looks back on its storied history, dating to its inaugural issue, which was published on Jan. 16, 1928.
The 12-page maiden issue, sold for 10 centavos per copy, tackled national and University concerns. It featured an editorial titled “Confession of Faith,” which outlined the publication’s principles:
“The Varsitarian, based upon the most democratic spirit of being controlled, managed, supported and run directly by the student body under the auspices of the UST Literary Club, we believe that it is an indication of a progressive spirit towards students’ academic freedom–the exercise of self-government during college life, which, incidentally, fortifies the student for the more serious life work that is in store for him,” the editorial read.
On the front page, then-UST Rector Fr. Serapio Tamayo, O.P. commended the “excellent idea” of publishing a university paper and underscored its role in fostering a culture of writing at UST.
“Writing is one of the best educative means, not only in improving one’s style but also in developing the powers of thinking and acquiring broader and deeper knowledge,” Tamayo wrote.
“When these writings are to be published, the author is still more accurate and tries to show his best wares. That is why I believe this publication will stimulate good writing among our students, and with writing, thinking, and studying.”
A letter from former Faculty of Civil Law dean Gabriel Lao, printed on page four, expressed hope that the “V” would uphold liberty and embody the spirit of UST. Lao wished for the publication to “live as long and as prosperously as our dear Alma Mater.”
In addition to the rector’s congratulatory message, the front page highlighted a variety of topics, including an obituary, updates on road construction lectures, contest winners, and coverage of the famous “Balagtasan” debate held at the university.
It also featured stories about cutting-edge laboratories located on the Main Building’s roof, where aspiring pharmacists underwent practical tests and mock board examinations.
On page four, snapshot interviews with students captured their opinions about the new marriage law in the Philippines. Other notable columns included “Antabus Service Should Continue” by Tomas G. Josef and “A Moral Disease Among Students” by Eusebio T. Perez, both from the College of Medicine (now the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery).
The publication also showcased literary works, such as the short story “Know Thy God,” about a beautiful woman who did not believe in God, and “Crocodiles,” a legend about lovers who became the reason crocodiles exist in Taal Lake.
A profile on Dr. Manuel Tuason, a College of Medicine professor known for owning one of the finest residences in Manila, graced the pages. Other features included New Year’s resolutions, the astronomical clock at the Miguel de Benavides Library, epigrams, and the advent of mental testing in education.
The sports section highlighted the university’s football team, which had recently won a tournament for the second time. In an article titled “How We Stand in the Sporting Realm,” the “V” pointed out that the greatest challenge for UST’s sports teams was assembling players for training, as class schedules were designed to accommodate professors rather than student-athletes.
The eighth and ninth pages, written entirely in Spanish, featured the “Pagina Cervantina” (Cervantine Page), which celebrated Hispanic culture with literary works and articles.
In an advocacy journalism piece, the “V” called on the Municipal Council of Manila to approve the Azcarraga-España autobus service. The article, titled “Calle España Should Be Extended,” noted that a petition signed by approximately 2,000 students and residents backed the initiative.
Driven by a shared desire to create “something to write on,” Jose Villa Panganiban and other founding members of the “V” turned their vision into reality. Under the leadership of junior medical student Pablo Anido, the publication’s first editor in chief, they overcame significant financial and administrative challenges.
Panganiban, who began his journey as a university hot cake cook, rose to become the publication’s associate editor, earning him the title “Father of the Varsitarian.”
The publication’s formative years were guided by English Department professor John Jefferson Siler and College of Liberal Arts (now the College of Science) Dean Rev. Fr. Juan Labrador, O.P. Both served as the first moderators of the “V,” nurturing a fledgling idea into a lasting legacy.