The Seal of the University

The Seal of the University

Blazon of the Seal
The seal of the University is a circular shield framed with fourteen triangles, depicting a sunbeam, with embossed inscription: "Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila 1965" all in gold.

The field within is divided quarterly. The upper dexter field (dexter chief) is in red, the lower sinister field (sinister base) in light blue, and the upper sinister field (sinister chief) and lower dexter field (dexter base) in white. On the upper dexter side (dexter chief), the sunburst in white and gold rays are placed on a red field. The upper sinister side (sinister chief) has a flaming torch on the tip of a bamboo handle superimposed over the symbol of the atomic orbits with electrons in red, placed on a white field.

On the lower center point (middle base) is a book superimposed with a bamboo scroll with ancient Tagala script balanced by a branch of the Nilad shrub in light green, all placed between the lower white and light blue fields. From the lower dexter side (dexter base) to the lower sinister side (sinister base) are inscribed in gold: "Karunungan, Kaunlaran, Kadakilaan."

The circular shield is divided into four quadrants, representing the then-four congressional districts* of Manila, while the fourteen triangles or radiating spires stand for the administrative districts of Manila, namely, Tondo, Binondo, Quiapo, San Nicolas, Santa Cruz, Sampaloc, San Miguel, Ermita, Intramuros, Malate, Paco, Pandacan, Port Area and Santa Ana.

*The 1987 Philippine Constitution mandated that Manila's then-four congressional districts be increased to the current six to conform with the new provision on the determination of the number of representation of contiguous geographical units in the Congress.

Symbolism of Emblems
The sunburst signifies the oriental symbol of "Life, Energy & Power." The flaming torch signifies "Light and Truth." The green-bound book signifies modern knowledge. The bamboo scroll signifies the ancient Tagala culture. The atomic orbits signify modern science. The Nilad branch signifies the origin of the name of the ancient town of Maynilad. The fourteen pointed triangles framing the circular shield signify the fourteen districts of Manila. The word Motto on the Seal signifies the guiding principles of the University: Knowledge, Progress, Greatness - (Knowledge for Prosperity with Greatness).

The University Seal was designed by Arch. Carlos da Silva. The above heraldic description as reported by Arch. da Silva was finally approved by the Board of Regents through BOR Resolution No. 39 during its 16th Official Meeting held on 17 June 1967 at the Mayor's Office in Maharnilad.

Colors
The University colors are golden-yellow, flaming-red and light-blue.

Symbolism of Colors
Gold signifies Nobility, Wealth and Power.
White signifies Light, Truth and Faith.
Light-blue signifies Brotherly-Love and Peace.
Red signifies Patriotism, Bravery and Sacrifice.
Green signifies Hope.