DHVSU is now Pampanga State U
BACOLOR, Pampanga – A new chapter unfolds for one of the Philippines’ oldest public higher education institutions as Don Honorio Ventura State University (DHVSU) officially becomes Pampanga State University (PSU), following the enactment of Republic Act No. 12148 or the Revised Don Honorio Ventura State University Charter.
Founded in 1861 as the Escuela de Artes y Oficios de Bacolor, the university has undergone several name changes throughout its history: from Bacolor Trade School in 1905, to Pampanga Trade School in 1909, and Don Honorio Ventura Memorial School of Arts and Trades in 1964—honoring Don Honorio Ventura, a prominent Kapampangan philanthropist. In 2019, it became Don Honorio Ventura State University.
Now, the institution embraces a new identity as Pampanga State University, a move welcomed by students, alumni, and public officials as a symbol of growth and regional pride.
A celebration of change and identity
Last Friday, June 27, the university community gathered for a celebration marking the official transition. Former Pampanga 3rd District Representative Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales, who authored the bill, emphasized the significance of the renaming—not just as a legal change, but as a cultural one.
“It gives our students a stronger sense of identity,” Gonzales said. “When someone asks you, ‘Where did you graduate?’ and you answer, ‘Pampanga State University’—it instantly tells people you are Kapampangan. You carry with you the pride of this province.”
Gonzales also clarified that while the university has adopted a new name, it will not abandon its historical roots. The main campus in Bacolor will retain its legacy identity and will now be known as PSU – DHVSU Campus.
“It’s not about forgetting the past. In fact, we honor it. Don Honorio Ventura’s contributions to education in Pampanga remain part of our foundation,” he added.
Preparing for the future
PSU President Dr. Enrique Baking echoed Gonzales’ sentiments, emphasizing that the name change is part of the university’s long-term strategic vision.
“We’re not abandoning history. We acknowledge the past, and we are building on it,” Baking said. “This transformation is about preparing for the future—for the next generation.”
While the university will not implement drastic changes in its operations, Baking said the new identity will help position PSU for greater opportunities, especially in accessing national government funding.
“This change gives us leverage to expand our programs and increase our capacity. We’re eyeing new offerings such as a College of Medicine and other allied health courses,” he explained. “All of these are for our fellow Kapampangans—not just in Bacolor, but across the entire province.”
A university for all Kapampangans
The leadership of PSU believes that this evolution will enable the university to reach more students across the region, providing them with access to quality education that can uplift lives and communities.
As PSU embarks on this new journey, it does so with deep respect for its heritage, a clear vision for the future, and a renewed commitment to serve the youth of Pampanga. (AP/JYD)