The Faculty of Arts and Letters of the University of Santo Tomas celebrates its 60th Founding Anniversary with a year-long series of special events culminating with a Grand Gala Night on 1 March at the Manila Hotel with the theme, “A Tradition of Excellence: From Pen to Pixels.”

This culminating event will honor Artlets’ past while embracing the future. The Faculty of Arts and Letters is committed to sustaining and elevating excellence, nurturing students and academic staff as they prepare for the challenges of the 21st century.

From its humble beginnings as the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters in 1896 to its establishment as the Faculty of Arts and Letters in 1964, the Faculty has a rich history to celebrate.

“This anniversary invites us to reflect on cherished memories and honor the exceptional contributions of our esteemed alumni,” says former senator Atty. Joey Lina, head of Ways & Means.

Among the Faculty’s distinguished alumni are four National Artists, namely Rolando Tinio, Cirilo Bautista, Bienvenido Lumbera, and Francisco Sionil Jose. In addition, veteran journalists Arnold Clavio, Sandra Aguinaldo and Julie Yap Daza as well as radio broadcaster Ali Sotto are among the alumni of the Faculty of Arts and Letters.

Countless others made their marks in journalism, literature, advertising, mass media, government, academe, and other related fields.

The 60th-anniversary celebration will feature several event highlights, including a photo and memorabilia exhibit showcasing the Faculty’s rich history, and an art piece — a life-size mural by the Blanco Brothers.

“Let’s make this milestone celebration unforgettable. We encourage all graduates to invite fellow alumni and spread the word about our shared heritage as we look forward to celebrating this significant occasion with you,” says Rainmakers frontman Joel Macanaya, co-chairperson of the milestone event.