Far Eastern University facts for kids

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Far Eastern University

Pamantasan ng Malayong Silanganan
University Seal
Former names	Far Eastern College (1919–1922) Institute of Accountancy (1928–1929) Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance (1929–1933)
Motto	Love of Fatherland and God
Type	Private coeducational research university
Established	June 1, 1928 (97 years and 19 days)
Founder	Nicanor B. Reyes Sr.
Academic affiliations	ASAIHL AUN AACSB ACCA UMAP PAASCU
Endowment	₱4.1 billion (US$ 72 million) (2022)
Chairman	Aurelio Reyes Montinola III
President	Juan Miguel R. Montinola
Vice-president	Maria Teresa P. Tinio
Academic staff	1500
Undergraduates	39,361 including subsidiaries
Address	Nicanor Reyes Street, Sampaloc, 1015 , Manila , Metro Manila , Philippines 14°36′14″N 120°59′08″E / 14.6038°N 120.9855°E / 14.6038; 120.9855
Campus	Main campus FEU Manila & FEU Tech 5 hectares (50,000 m2) Satellite campus FEU Makati 1.5 hectares (15,000 m2) Institute of Law
Colors	Green  Gold
Nickname	Tamaraws
Sporting affiliations	UAAP
Mascot	TamTam and Sari

Far Eastern University (FEU) is a private university in Manila, Philippines. It is also known by its Filipino name, Pamantasan ng Malayong Silanganan. FEU started in 1934 when two schools, Far Eastern College and the Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance, joined together. Its first president was Nicanor Reyes Sr..

FEU began as the first school for accountancy in the Philippines. Over the years, it has grown a lot. Now, it offers many courses like arts, sciences, architecture, education, engineering, computer studies, law, nursing, and medicine. FEU has seven campuses in different parts of the Philippines. These include Metro Manila, Cavite, and Rizal. The university offers programs from elementary school all the way to graduate studies.

FEU Manila has several special institutes for different subjects. Its accountancy program has the highest Level IV accreditation from PACUCOA. This means it meets very high standards. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) also calls FEU a "Center of Development" for Business Administration. It is also a "Center of Excellence" for Teacher Education.

The FEU campus is famous for its beautiful Art Deco buildings. These buildings were built in the early 1900s and are still well-preserved. FEU is ranked among the top universities in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. It is also recognized in the QS Asia Rankings.

Far Eastern University: A Look Back

How FEU Started

Far Eastern University was founded in November 1933. It was created by combining two schools: Far Eastern College and the Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance (IABF). Far Eastern College began in 1919. It was started by Vicente K. Fabella, the first Filipino CPA, and other educators. The IABF was founded in 1928 by Francisco Dalupan Sr. and Nicanor Reyes Sr..

FEU started with only 117 students. Before World War II, this number grew to 11,000 students. The university showed that a private school could succeed financially in the Philippines. FEU is the 6th oldest university in the Philippines. It is also the 4th oldest private, non-religious university in the country.

In the early 1930s, FEU was in a building that used to be a tobacco factory. This building was on a 4-hectare property. Later, a new, bigger building was designed by Architect Pablo Antonio Sr.. This new building is where the FEU campus is today.

In 1934, FEU opened its first four main departments. These were Accounts, Business and Finance, Arts and Sciences, Law, and Education. Two years later, the Institute of Technology was also added.

Dr. Reyes Sr. worked hard to create the courses and programs for FEU. He asked Architect Pablo S. Antonio Sr. to design the main buildings. In 1940, the Nicanor B. Reyes Sr. Hall opened. It housed the main library and the Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance. Two more buildings, for girls' and boys' high schools, were also built. Enrollment reached about 10,000 students. Former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon praised FEU as "the best non-sectarian institution in the country."

In 1941, FEU also had the first ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) quartermaster and finance units in the Philippines. Many FEU cadets fought in Bataan during World War II. They were known for their bravery and for having the first Coastal Artillery unit.

During World War II

In 1942, the university had to close because of World War II. The campus was used by the Imperial Japanese Army. It served as a facility for their transportation and later as a Prisoner of War Bureau.

During the Battle of Manila in 1945, Dr. Reyes Sr. was killed. After the war, Hermenegildo B. Reyes became the second president. The university reopened in June 1945.

After the War

FEU reopened in October 1945, even though American forces still used some of its buildings. After the war, FEU grew a lot. It added new facilities to meet the needs of more students. In the early 1950s, FEU was called the "Largest University in Asia." This was because it had almost 50,000 students.

FEU continued to expand. It opened the Science Building and started the Institute of Medicine and the School of Nursing. In 1955, the FEU Hospital was opened. In 1970, the Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts began. Later, the medical and health-related parts of FEU became a non-profit foundation.

In 1989, Nicanor Reyes Jr. started big changes at FEU. Buildings were renovated, and the quality of education improved. Many programs received special accreditation. The university auditorium was also updated for modern shows. FEU also started publishing scholarly journals and working with other schools.

In 1996, FEU changed its technology programs. It partnered with East Asia Computer Center, Inc. to offer computer science degrees. Later, FEU bought out its partner and created FEU East Asia College (FEU-EAC).

In 2010, FEU opened the Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management. It also opened the FEU Makati campus. Since then, FEU has opened more campuses in Silang, Cavite, and Alabang. It also acquired Roosevelt College, Inc. in Rizal.

In 2022, the new Institute of Health Sciences and Nursing (IHSN) was created. It offers health-related programs. In 2024, FEU brought back its Chemistry and Economics programs. It also launched new programs in Pharmacy, and Nutrition and Dietetics.

FEU as a Company

The Far Eastern University, Incorporated (FEU) is an educational company. It was officially registered in October 1933. The university became a publicly traded company in 1986. This means people can buy shares of the university.

FEU works in three main areas: education, real estate, and investments. Its campuses are in Manila, Makati, and Cavite.

FEU has several major schools under its group. These include Far Eastern College – Silang, Inc. (FECSI), East Asia Computer Center, Inc. (EACCI), and FEU Alabang, Inc.. In 2016, FEU also bought a large part of Roosevelt College, Inc.

In 2019, FEU teamed up with the Technological Institute of the Philippines. Together, they launched Edustria, a senior high school in Batangas. In 2022, FEU also partnered with a nursing institution in Brunei. It also joined forces with Good Samaritan Colleges in Cabanatuan City.

FEU's Special Symbols

The University Seal

The FEU Coat of Arms shows a Sarimanok holding a kalasag (a shield). Inside the shield is an 8-pointed star. Below it is a bamboo scroll with the baybayin letters “KKK”. The university seal has this Coat of Arms inside a green oval with a gold outline. The university's name is written around it in a special font.

• The logo and font were designed by Galo Ocampo. He is known as the Father of Philippine Heraldry.
• FEU was one of the first universities in the Philippines started by a Filipino. In 1961, the university chose the Sarimanok design. This was to show its nationalistic spirit.
• The "KKK" stands for Katotohanan (Truth), Kagandahan (Beauty), and Kabutihan (Goodness).

The University Colors

Green and Gold are FEU's official colors. Green stands for hope, like Rizal's idea of the Philippines as the "Fair hope of the Fatherland." Gold represents the great chance for the university to help young people. It also symbolizes its alumni serving the country.

The University Mascot

The tamaraw is FEU's athletic mascot. It is also the nickname for every FEU student. The tamaraw is an animal found only in Mindoro. It is known for being intelligent, strong, and aggressive. This symbolizes FEU's modern and forward-thinking approach to education.

The University Mace

The mace is a special symbol used at formal university events. These include graduation ceremonies. The mace represents the President's Office. It has the university seal made of bronze on top of a staff made from Philippine hardwood.

Exploring the Manila Campus

FEU's campus has several buildings designed by the famous architect Pablo S. Antonio Sr. In 2005, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) gave FEU an award. This was for keeping its Art Deco buildings so well preserved. These buildings include the Nicanor B. Reyes Sr. Hall, the Admissions Building, the Architecture and Fine Arts Building, the Administration Building, and the Science Building.

In 2018, these Art Deco buildings were declared "National Cultural Treasures." The FEU Chapel and several artworks were also included. The chapel has a mosaic by Vicente Manansala and paintings by Botong Francisco. Bronze sculptures by Manansala and bas-reliefs by Francesco Riccardo Monti are also National Cultural Treasures.

FEU has many modern facilities. These include an electronic library, various labs, an auditorium, and multimedia rooms. It also has a special gate security and enrollment system. The university is known for its green and eco-friendly campus. It is often called the "Oasis of the University Belt."

History of Campus Buildings

The FEU campus buildings were designed by Arch. Pablo S. Antonio Sr. They were built between 1939 and 1950. These buildings show the influence of American design and technology. They use concrete and steel, which are good for the tropical weather. The buildings also show Antonio's shift from Art Deco to the International Style.

Nicanor B. Reyes Sr. Hall

This building is named after FEU's founder. It is a long, U-shaped building facing Quezon Boulevard. Arch. Pablo Antonio built it in 1939. The building has unique vertical sections at both ends.

Antonio's designs pay close attention to details. Even the stairs show the Art Deco style. The outdoor stairs have thin concrete slabs that curve like waves. This is a contrast to the straight lines of the handrail. The building's design is a great example of Philippine Art Deco. It focuses on geometric shapes.

Administration Building

The Administration Building was also designed by Arch. Antonio Sr. It is across from the campus quadrangle. Its facade has geometric details, horizontal windows, and a balcony. The lobby floor uses Carrara Marble. This is the same material used in Michelangelo's La Pieta and New York's Grand Central Station.

This building displays works by many Filipino artists. A mural by Antonio Gonzales Dumlao shows the university's mission. Italian sculptor Francesco Riccardo Monti created a bas-relief in the lobby. It shows the history of the Philippines. The Art Deco-inspired FEU Auditorium is also inside this building.

The FEU Auditorium is a highlight of the building. It features curves, ribbed pillars, and geometric patterns. It was the first fully air-conditioned auditorium in the country. It also had a revolving stage. In the 1950s, it was a major cultural center in the Philippines. Many famous Filipino and foreign artists performed there.

Admissions Building

Opened in 1940, the Admissions Building looks like the Architecture & Fine Arts Building. It was first used for the Girls' High School. Later, it housed the Institute of Medicine. In the early 2000s, it became the main building for FEU-East Asia College. After renovations in 2015, it returned to FEU Manila. Today, it holds offices like the Registrar and Admissions.

Architecture and Fine Arts Building

This building is one of two similar buildings next to the Administration Building. Arch. Antonio Sr. designed it in the Art Deco Style. Built in 1941, it first housed the Boys' High School. It also held the Law and Nursing programs. Now, it is home to the Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts.

Science Building

The seven-story Science Building was completed in 1950. It was the last building designed by Arch. Antonio Sr. It shows a mix of Art Deco and International Style. An earthquake in 1990 damaged the top two floors, which were removed. A sixth floor was added in 2013. This building now houses departments like Medical Technology, Psychology, and Biology.

Accounts, Business and Finance Building

This 7-story building was originally an expansion of the Nursing Building in the 1960s. It was known as the Education Building. In 2017, it was renamed the Accounts, Business and Finance Building. It is now used by the Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance.

Alfredo Reyes Hall

Named after the founder's son, this 6-story building is next to the Nicanor Reyes Hall. It houses the Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management. It has a mock hotel, cooking labs, and a basketball court with a special maple wood floor. It also has a student-run cafe called Cafe Alfredo.

Arts Building

Designed by Felipe Mendoza, the Arts Building was built in the 1960s. It was originally 8 stories tall. However, it was reduced to 6 stories after the August 1968 Luzon earthquake. This building holds departments like Communication and Political Science. It also has a gym on the top floor and a conference center.

Education Building

This seven-story building was finished in 2001. It was part of the expansion for FEU-EAC. Its design is similar to the Nicanor Reyes Hall, with two pillars and an arched roof. The building is currently home to the Institute of Education.

Engineering Building

This nine-story building stands where the old FEU Hospital used to be. It was completed in 2005. The building was designed by Arch. Pablo Antonio, Jr. It was first called the Technology Building. In 2019, it was renamed the Engineering Building. It houses the FEU Tech Innovation Center and a mini auditorium.

FEUTURE Center

The FEU Transformative University Resource Center, or FEUTURE Center, is the newest building. It is an 8-story building with more classrooms, learning spaces, and parking. Construction started in 2018. It opened in April 2021, after delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nursing Building

This seven-story building was completed in the 1960s. It used to house the Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts. Now, it is home to the Institute of Nursing. It has a special simulation lab for nursing students. It is also mostly used by FEU High School.

FEU Auditorium

FEU's Auditorium was designed by Pablo Antonio Sr. in 1949. It was considered the first "cultural center of the Philippines." It was also the first fully air-conditioned auditorium in the country. It can hold 1000 people. The Auditorium hosted famous orchestras and dance groups. It was also the venue for major theater productions.

FEU Chapel

The Student Council Association (SCA) Chapel was designed by Architect Felipe Mendoza. It opened in December 1957. Catholic activities for students and staff are held here. Its interior has a mural by Carlos “Botong” Francisco. The chapel's facade features a colorful tile mosaic of Our Lady of Fatima by Vicente Manansala.

Nicanor B. Reyes Sr. Memorial Square

This landmark is in the middle of the campus. It is a popular spot for photos. It was built to celebrate the university's 40th anniversary. It has a 65-foot flagpole on a platform. Around the platform are brass sculptures by Manansala. These sculptures show the founder's ideas about education. They represent the different subjects taught at the university.

FEU Library

The FEU Library is on the second and third floors of the Nicanor Reyes Hall. It has many books in different sections. Students can easily find books using the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC). The Electronic Library also provides online resources.

In 2012, the Philippine Association of Academic Research Librarians, Inc. (PAARL) gave the library an award. It was recognized for its great contribution to academic research and library development.

What Students Learn at FEU

FEU offers many different programs. It has 27 undergraduate programs and 21 graduate degree programs. It also has a law school. FEU Tech offers 9 undergraduate programs in engineering and computer studies. The university also has programs for high school and special certification courses. Since 2020, FEU Manila has also offered programs at its Cavite campus.

The university uses a semester system. The academic year starts in August and ends in May. A Board of Trustees, made up of experts, oversees the university.

Institute founding
Institutes	Year founded
Accounts, Business and Finance	1929
Arts and Sciences	1934
Education	1934
Law	1934
Technology	1936
Medicine	1952
Nursing	1955
Graduate Studies	1957
Architecture and Fine Arts	1970
Tourism and Hotel Management	2010
Health Sciences and Nursing	2022

FEU's General Education (GE) program has fifteen courses. These courses are usually taken in the first two years of college. They focus on helping students develop important skills. Students learn to think critically and connect ideas. The GE courses encourage students to actively participate in their learning.

How to Get In and Scholarships

Students who want to study at FEU usually need to pass the College Entrance Exam (FEUCAT). In 2021, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the FEUCAT was replaced. Now, admission is based on academic performance in Grades 11 and 12.

FEU has an open admission policy. This means it welcomes many different students without very strict entrance exams. This helps make higher education available to more people. Some specific programs might have extra requirements.

FEU helps over 3,500 students with scholarships every year. This is about 11% of all students. Scholarships are given to students who do well academically. They are also given to deserving students who need financial help. University representatives in different fields also receive scholarships.

Grading System

A student's final grade at FEU is usually a letter. This letter shows how well they did in their assignments and tests. The letter grades have number values: A is 4, B+ is 3.5, B is 3, C+ is 2.5, C is 2, D+ is 1.5, D is 1, and F is 0. To pass any course, a student needs at least 50%.

University rankings
Regional – Overall
QS Asia	701-705 (2024)
National – Overall
QS National	11 (2024)

Awards and Recognition

FEU Manila has been given "Autonomous University" status by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This means it meets the highest standards for universities in the Philippines. CHED has also named FEU's Teacher Education Program a "Center of Excellence." Its Bachelor of Science in Business Administration is a "Center of Development."

The university has 21 accredited programs. Eight of its undergraduate programs have the highest Level IV accreditation from PACUCOA. The other programs are working towards higher accreditation levels.

FEU Manila is also recognized internationally. It is a member of the ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance (AUN-QA). It is also a member of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) for its business programs. FEU's Tourism Management and Hotel and Restaurant Management programs are also recognized by THE-ICE.

FEU was the only Philippine school in the World Universities with Real Impact (WURI) Ranking for 2020. It ranked 91st among the Global Top 100 Innovative Universities. It also ranked 19th for Ethical Value. FEU also joined the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Rankings in 2024, ranking 701-705 in Asia.

FEU has an ISO 9000:2008 certification for Quality Management. FEU is also building connections with 30 international schools.

Research at FEU

FEU supports research in many areas. These include biodiversity, urban renewal, public health, and indigenous cultures. The university is an active member of research groups like the Metro Manila Health Research and Development Consortium. FEU also partners with universities around the world. These partnerships involve student and faculty exchanges and joint research projects.

• FEU Public Policy Center - This center does research to help create good policies.
• Center for Studies on the Urban Environment (SURE) - This center works to improve city environments.
• FEU Academy (Center for Continuing Education) - This is where FEU offers training programs for non-students and professionals.
• FEU Tech Innovation Center - This center helps develop new business ideas.
• University Research Center (URC) - This center helps promote research at the university. It provides funding and helps share research information.

Publications

FEU publishes many important materials and journals.

• TAMBULI - This is the official publication of Far Eastern University.
• The FEU Advocate - This is the official student newspaper of FEU Manila, started in 1934.
• Asian Journal on Perspectives in Education - This is an international journal from the Institute of Education.
• FRAMEwork: The Asia-Pacific Journal of Communication - This is an academic journal from the Department of Communication.
• The Paragon - This is the official student publication of the Institute of Arts and Sciences.
• Circle Arts and Design Magazine - This magazine from the Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts shows student art projects.
• The Lamp - This is the official student publication of the Institute of Nursing.
• Far Eastern Law Review - This is the official journal of the Institute of Law.

Student Life at FEU

FEU has a long and rich history in education, culture, arts, sports, and student leadership.

Sports and Athletics

FEU is a founding member of two major college sports organizations in the Philippines. These are the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

Many famous athletes have attended FEU. These include Lydia De Vega (track and field) and Johnny Abarrientos (basketball). FEU's teams are called the Tamaraws. The tamaraw is a buffalo known for being fierce.

FEU holds the record for the most championships in men's basketball, with 20 titles. FEU is also second in total championships across all basketball divisions. The Tamaraw Spikers have the longest championship streak in the UAAP. FEU also leads in UAAP track and field, with 57 titles.

Campus Events

• Tatak Tamaraw - This is a week-long event that welcomes new students to FEU. It helps them learn about school rules and campus life.
• Tam Hunt - This is a fair where students can learn about and join different student organizations.
• Tam Rally - This event features a parade and performances by FEU athletes and cultural groups. It gets everyone excited for the upcoming UAAP season.
• CreePIYU - This is an annual Halloween event organized by the FEU Guides.
• Pasko sa Piyu - This is the university's Christmas celebration. It ends with the lighting of the Christmas Tree and performances.
• One Concierto Piyu - This is a concert held on the last day of the university's foundation week.

Arts and Culture

Since 1990, FEU has had the FEU Center for the Arts. It plans cultural activities throughout the year. The FCA also supports seven cultural groups. These include the FEU Bamboo Band, FEU Chorale, and FEU Dance Company. The FEU Guides give tours of FEU's UNESCO-recognized campus.

FEU has a large art collection. It includes works by famous Filipino artists like National Artists Botong Francisco and Vicente Manansala. The collection also features works by international artists. These artworks are displayed throughout the university's campuses. Memorabilia of National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin is also on display at the FEU library.

FEU was the first university in the Philippines to allow students to dress according to their gender identity. In August 2016, the university made its dress code more flexible. Students can now use all-gender restrooms and choose school attire instead of a uniform.

Student Groups

There are over 60 student organizations at FEU. These groups offer students experiences outside the classroom. They help students grow in different ways. The organizations often hold projects during special activity periods.

The FEU Central Student Organization is the main student government. It works to protect student rights and well-being. It also creates programs and activities for students.

The FEU Group of Schools

The FEU Group of Schools is a network of schools in the Philippines. They offer different programs for various levels of education. It includes six legal entities that run ten campuses. They serve over 40,000 students.

Far Eastern University (FEU Manila)	Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts Institute of Arts and Sciences Institute of Education Institute of Health Sciences and Nursing Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management	FEU Manila is the main campus. It is located on Nicanor Reyes Street in Sampaloc, Manila. It has most of FEU's academic programs and offices.
Far Eastern University Makati (FEU Makati)	Institute of Law Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance	FEU Makati is a smaller campus in the business district of Makati. It mainly serves graduate business and law students.
Far Eastern University Institute of Technology (FEU Tech)	College of Engineering College of Computer Studies and Multimedia Arts Department of Graduate Studies	FEU Tech is the engineering and technology part of the university. It is located near the main campus in Sampaloc, Manila.
Far Eastern University Diliman (FEU Diliman)	Kindergarten Elementary School High School College of Accounts and Business College of Computer Studies and Multimedia Arts	FEU Diliman is in Diliman, Quezon City. It is the largest FEU campus. It also houses the FEU Sports Center.
Far Eastern University Alabang (FEU Alabang)	Senior High School College of Accounts and Business College of Engineering College of Computer Studies and Multimedia Arts	FEU Alabang is an extension campus of FEU Tech. It is located in Filinvest City, Muntinlupa.
Far Eastern University Roosevelt (FEU Roosevelt)	Basic Education Tertiary Education Institute for Teacher Education	FEU Roosevelt is a private college system with five campuses in the greater Metro Manila area. It has campuses in Cainta, Marikina, and Rodriguez.
Far Eastern College – Silang (FEU Cavite)	Elementary School Junior High School Senior High School Tertiary Education	FEU Cavite is an extension campus of FEU Manila. It is located in Silang, Cavite.
Far Eastern University High School (FEU High School)	Junior High School Senior High School	FEU High School offers junior and senior high school programs. It includes academic tracks like STEM, ABM, HUMSS, and GAS.
Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEU NRMF)	School of Medicine School of Medical Laboratory Science School of Nutrition and Dietetics School of Nursing School of Pharmacy School of Physical Therapy School of Psychology School of Radiologic Technology School of Respiratory Therapy Senior High School (STEM only)	FEU NRMF is FEU's medical campus. It is located in West Fairview, Quezon City. It operates on its own but is still part of the FEU campuses.

Famous People Who Attended FEU

Since it started in 1928, FEU has produced many successful people. These include national artists, Ramon Magsaysay Awardees, and successful business leaders. Many ambassadors, Supreme Court justices, and experts in various fields have also graduated from FEU.

Some notable alumni include former Supreme Court Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban. Business leaders like Henry Sy (SM Investments) and Lucio Tan (Philippine Airlines) also attended FEU. Ambassador Alfonso Yuchengco and Ramon Ang (President of San Miguel Corporation) are also FEU alumni.

FEU has also produced many famous athletes. These include Anthony Villanueva (boxing), Lydia de Vega (track and field), and Johnny Abarrientos (basketball). Rachel Daquis (volleyball) and Janelle Mae Frayna (chess) are also well-known FEU athletes.

See also

• List of colleges and universities in Metro Manila