While many are familiar with the century-old legacy of De La Salle University (DLSU), few are aware that its journey to becoming a leading higher education institution began when it attained its University Charter in 1975.

As DLSU approaches its golden jubilee, it’s not merely a celebration of five decades of transformative impact—it also signifies a renewed commitment to shaping the future of the Philippines.

DLSU’s roots can be traced back to 1911 when the pioneering De La Salle Brothers established the first La Salle school in the Philippines. Initially named De La Salle College, the institution embraced co-education in 1973, and two years later, it received its University Charter, officially becoming De La Salle University.

“Our University Charter has granted us the autonomy to tailor programs, enabling us to promptly address industry demands,” emphasized Br. Bernard Oca FSC, DLSU President. “Today, we consistently draw in professionals and researchers eager to advance while making meaningful contributions to their disciplines and communities.”

Since then, DLSU’s impact has transcended academia, making profound contributions to the advancement of the country. It has become a significant resource for national development, renowned for its academic excellence, relevant research, and community service.

Shaping leaders and changemakers of tomorrow

At the core of DLSU’s journey lies the enduring values of St. John Baptist de La Salle, the patron saint of teachers. His legacy, rooted in faith, compassion, service, and community, continues to guide DLSU in its mission to shape future leaders and achievers.

“Our alumni are a testament to our reputation as a catalyst for change and a leading resource. Through their substantial contributions, they actively participate in nation-building and the creation of sustainable solutions for social transformation,” Br. Oca asserted.

DLSU alumni excel across various fields, from CEOs and entrepreneurs to policymakers, artists, and academicians. Many are actively involved in NGOs and cause-oriented groups, contributing significantly to the betterment of society. 

Their support for their alma mater is evident through scholarships, research grants, and initiatives in sports and physical development. In the past two months, the university has welcomed new partnerships with some of its most illustrious alumni. These partnerships have enabled DLSU to establish new programs, support the continuing development of its faculty, and provide scholarships to many.

Pioneering excellence in research and education 

Over nearly five decades, DLSU has led the way pioneering educational paradigms and research initiatives in the Philippines, geared towards uplifting communities, key industries, and the nation. In 1975, alongside receiving its University Charter, DLSU established the nation’s first university computer center. This laid the groundwork for its evolution into a research powerhouse in the 1980s, marked by forging partnerships with global entities like the ASEAN University Network, where it is a founding member.

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, DLSU achieved several noteworthy firsts. It was the first Philippine university to attain the highest accreditation from PAASCU, and it appointed its first woman and lay president. Additionally, its students and faculty created SINAG, the country’s first solar car. The university also made history as the first private Philippine institution ranked in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the first HEI to undergo ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance assessment at the institutional level. 

These milestones have contributed to both national advancement and global challenges. Projects like EDCOM 2 have influenced national policymaking, while environmental sustainability initiatives, including coral reef and coffee research, have tackled critical issues on both local and global scales. Moreover, it recently became the first university in the country to institutionalize the localization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Building upon a legacy of transformative impact 

With its pioneering Lasallian spirit, the university continues to lead the nation in innovation and sustainability through new programs in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Logistics, alongside new research and learning facilities. DLSU has consistently expanded its presence in strategic areas by developing its Laguna campus as a regional center for science and technology research and setting up a laboratory for the country’s Coffee Science program.

Br. Bernie expressed gratitude, stating, “We receive invaluable support from governmental bodies like the Department of Science and Technology and Commission on Higher Education, as well as international foundations and research centers. Their backing has enabled us to expand our research and development endeavors, ensuring their national impact.”

Harnessing partnerships with local and global industry leaders and government bodies, DLSU is eager to continue its legacy of impact in nation-building. Guided by a robust five-year strategic plan, the university is actively working to unlock the full potential of its faculty and staff, transform the Philippine knowledge ecosystem through a network of companies and institutions, as well as position DLSU as an internationally influential research university.

“As we mark our 50th anniversary as a university, we turn firmly outward, recognizing that Filipino talent has much to offer the world, as well as that problems and solutions are shared across borders,” said Br. Bernie. 

Looking ahead to the next fifty years, DLSU remains committed to its mission of nation-building and academic excellence. With a focus on innovation, leadership, and social responsibility, the university is well-positioned to shape the future of education, research, and societal development in the Philippines and beyond.