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The building marker given by the National Museum of the Philippines is a symbol of historical and cultural significance and signifies that the buildings has been recognized as an important part of the country’s heritage.

Three heritage buildings of the Philippine Normal University, namely the Normal Hall, the Geronima T. Pecson Hall (Main Building), and the Faculty Center (former Training Department Building) has been recognized as National Cultural Treasures and Important Cultural Properties by the National Museum of the Philippines by virtue of Republic Act No. 10066.

The decision was made on December 5, 2018 through a deliberation conducted by the Panel of Experts, affirmed by the Director-General of the National Museum, Jeremy R. Barns, CESO III, and approved via Museum Resolution No. 1-2018.

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The facade of the Geronima T. Pecson Hall of PNU reflects the University’s commitment to truth, excellence, and service.

The panel, under Presidential Decree (PD) No. 374, is tasked to conduct a “careful study and deliberation, decide which among the cultural properties in their field of specialization shall be designated as National Cultural Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.”

Article II, Sec. 3(bb) defined National Cultural Treasures as “unique cultural property found locally, possessing outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or scientific value which is highly significant and important to the country and nation, and officially declared as such by pertinent cultural agency.”

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The Normal Hall gives a glimpse of PNU’s rich history and legacy as a leader in teacher education in the country.

The Philippine Normal University, the National Center for Teacher Education, is known for its teacher education programs. The university’s main building, the Geronima T. Pecson Hall, was built in 1912 and was originally called the Philippine Normal School Building. The Normal Hall, on the other hand, was constructed in 1914 and served as the university’s main student dormitory. The former Training Department Building, now the Faculty Center, was reconstructed in the 1950 and was used as a training center for teachers.

According to the National Museum, the recognition of these buildings as national cultural treasures and important cultural properties is an important step in preserving the country’s cultural heritage. The designation means that the buildings will be protected from destruction or alteration and will be given priority in government funding for their maintenance and preservation.

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The Faculty Center of PNU stands as a symbol of unity, bridging generations of PNUans through the years. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of PNU in shaping the nation.

In a letter to the National Museum, PNU President Bert J. Tuga, expressed his gratitude for the recognition given to the buildings, saying that PNU will work hard to preserve and protect the structures for the future generation of Filipino teachers.

The recognition of the Philippine Normal University’s buildings as national cultural treasures and important cultural properties is a testament to the university’s contribution to the country’s cultural and architectural heritage.