The University Seal

The present seal of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) is likened to a blue shield bordered by a golden line. The shield is sectioned by the Dominican Cross, which represents the Dominican foundation of the University.

Hosted at the center of the cross is the sun of St. Thomas Aquinas, patron saint of the University and of Catholic schools and after whom the University was named.

The corners of the University seal feature different symbols like the Papal tiara (upper left) that indicates the University as a Pontifical institution; the Lion (upper right), which is adopted from the seal of Spain, is emblematic of the royal patronage of the centuries-old existence of the University; the sea-lion (lower left), adopted from the old seal of the City of Manila, that symbolizes that the University is part of the Capital of the Republic of the Philippines; and the Rose Vignette (lower right) that serves as a symbol of the patronage of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The symbols are set in gold on a field of light blue, to honor the Marian color. The cross, however, is in black and white, the Dominican colors.

The seal of the University bears the words “Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, Manila” along with its year of establishment.

Adapted from the UST Protocol Manual (2019)