THE UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas bagged the 2020 Casa Asia Award in the education and science category for being a historical, academic, and cultural reference in the Asia-Pacific region.

Casa Asia said that UST’s library was an integral part of the award because of the preservation of priceless centuries-worth heritage available in physical and digital versions.

UST was also recognized for its key role in education and training in the Philippines for more than 400 years, making it the oldest modern university in Asia.

A commemorative engraving and 1,500 euros will be given to the university in the awarding ceremony in 2021.

The Casa Asia Awards aims to recognize and disseminate the exemplary work of individuals and entities that promote dignity and human rights in the Asia-Pacific region.

It also promotes a better understanding between Spain and Asian countries as well as institutional, economic, cultural, and educational relations. It also encourages exchanges in the domains of culture, ideas, and projects of shared interest.

Casa Asia is a public consortium consisting of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, the Generalitat of Catalonia, and the Barcelona and Madrid City councils.