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UST illuminates campus in red to honor rights abuse victims

University of Santo Tomas marked a significant observance Monday by bathing its landmarks in red light as a show of solidarity with victims and survivors of human rights violations in the Philippines.

LSN Philippines · 21 September 2026

MANILA — The University of Santo Tomas in Sampaloc illuminated several landmarks across its campus in red on Monday, September 21, as part of a commemoration honoring those affected by human rights abuses in the country.

The symbolic lighting was intended to demonstrate institutional support for victims and survivors while drawing attention to documented cases of rights violations. The red illumination served as a visible reminder of stories and voices that university officials said must be preserved and acknowledged.

The observance reflects growing efforts among Philippine educational institutions to remember periods marked by documented human rights concerns. UST's gesture comes as civil society organizations continue to document and advocate for accountability regarding past violations.

The university's initiative aims to ensure that narratives of affected individuals remain part of public consciousness and institutional memory. By converting its physical landmarks into symbols of remembrance, UST joined other organizations in the Philippines using visible displays to commemorate victims and survivors of alleged abuses.