This guide covers Olivarez College and the Parañaque Monument in Parañaque City, as well as the Rizal Monument in Manila’s Luneta Park. It brings together information on their histories, features, visiting arrangements, and nearby places.
History
Olivarez College
Olivarez College was founded in 1976 by Dr. Pablo R. Olivarez and Dr. Rosario L. Olivarez to address the need for quality healthcare education in Parañaque City. Originally called the Olivarez School of Nursing, it began in a four-story building with classrooms, laboratories, a library, and dormitory accommodations.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the institution broadened its offerings to include liberal arts, commerce, and vocational courses, and added elementary and high school departments. By 1980, it was officially named Olivarez College.
In 2003, the college expanded to Tagaytay City, offering Nursing, Business Administration, Hotel and Restaurant Management, and Information Technology programs.
Parañaque Monument
The Parañaque Monument commemorates the city’s contributions to Philippine history. Its sculptures and plaques honor events and figures from the Spanish colonial period through World War II, and depict the courage and unity of Parañaque’s citizens.
Rizal Monument
Unveiled in 1913, the Rizal Monument in Manila’s Luneta Park honors José Rizal, whose writings and death were pivotal in the Philippine Revolution. Designed by Richard Kissling, it features a bronze statue on a granite pedestal containing Rizal’s remains. The monument represents Filipino nationalism and freedom and is a focal point for national celebrations and historical remembrance, including Rizal Day.
What to See and Experience
Olivarez College
The campus has modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and recreational spaces. Facilities include the Information Resource Center, with a spacious Wi-Fi-enabled library, state-of-the-art computer labs, and an EdTech Center. Pablo R. Olivarez Hall serves as a central academic hub with contemporary classrooms and resources for students across disciplines.
Students can join organizations focused on academics, culture, sports, and social causes. Annual events include Foundation Week, academic fairs, cultural festivals, and alumni gatherings. The Olivarez College Sea Lions, particularly the basketball team, have earned local recognition.
Academic and professional development opportunities include research, internships, national competitions, seminars, and forums in areas such as healthcare and business. Students compete in events such as the Philippine Food Expo’s Knowledge Challenge.
Community initiatives include the Blood Letting Drive and HEELS-UP Project. The college partners with government units, NGOs, and industries, and hosts events such as the National Criminology, Forensic Science, and Industrial Security Management Congress.
Distinguished alumni include Olivia Verastigue-Borromeo (Harborside Healthcare-Cedar Glen), Ma. Concordia Herrera (California Public Health Office), Rommel Nase (St. Mary’s NHS Trust, UK), and Mary Jane Atchico (public health and social services). Alumni support current students and the college through mentorship, speaking engagements, and philanthropic efforts.
Parañaque Monument
Informational plaques and QR codes provide educational content accessible by smartphone. The grounds also have shaded seating areas, restrooms, and drinking water stations. Photography is encouraged, particularly during golden hour. Annual cultural festivals and commemorations are hosted at the monument.
Rizal Monument
The monument and surrounding park are a place of national celebration and historical remembrance.
Practical Visiting Information
Olivarez College
Olivarez College is open to visitors on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visitors should confirm schedules for tours and events through the college website or administration. On-site parking and visitor assistance are available as needed, and the campus is accessible via major transport routes in Parañaque City.
Prospective students can find admissions information on the Olivarez College Admissions page. Guided campus tours are available; schedule one in advance by contacting the Admissions Office through the official website or by phone.
The college offers basic education, undergraduate, and graduate programs in Nursing, Business, Liberal Arts, Health Sciences, and Information Technology. It holds Level II accreditation from the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) for its Liberal Arts, Commerce, and Nursing programs. The Basic Education Department is accredited by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU).
Scholarships and financial assistance are available to qualified students. Master’s programs range from PHP 13,700 to PHP 16,400 per semester. The college has a diverse student body, including international enrollees.
Parañaque Monument
The monument is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free admission. Guided tours are available on weekends and public holidays.
It is along Dr. A. Santos Avenue (Sucat Road). Baclaran–Sucat jeepney routes stop nearby. Buses from central Manila and Makati stop at Virra Mall Sucat, an 11-minute walk away. Ride-hailing services have convenient nearby drop-off points. Navigation apps such as Moovit provide real-time travel guidance.
The monument is wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and paved paths. On-site personnel provide visitor security.
Rizal Monument
The Rizal Monument and Luneta Park are open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with free admission. Guided tours are available through official channels in multiple languages; advance booking is recommended. The monument and park are wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and ramps.
For updates or special-event information, check the Luneta Park website.
Tips
- Parañaque Monument Early mornings and late afternoons are suggested visiting times. Modest, comfortable attire is recommended. Visitors may take photos but should avoid damaging the site.
- Rizal Monument Early morning or late afternoon can mean cooler weather and fewer crowds. Photography is allowed; drone use requires special permission.
- Olivarez College Confirm tour, event, and visiting schedules with the college before going.
Nearby Places
Near the Parañaque Monument, visitors can also see San Roque Parish Church and the Parañaque City Museum.
Nearby attractions to the Rizal Monument include the National Museum of the Philippines, Manila Ocean Park, and Intramuros, the historic walled city.
Further Information
The college provides information through its Olivarez College website and Admissions page. For campus and alumni information, see the official Facebook page and alumni network.
For the Parañaque Monument, consult the official Parañaque tourism website or social media channels for the latest event schedules.
Additional references and links:
- A Comprehensive Guide to Olivarez College: History, Admissions, Campus Tours, and Visitor Information in Parañaque City, 2025 (Olivarez College Official Website)
- Olivarez College: Student Life, Community Engagement, and Notable Alumni, 2025 (OlivarezCollege-Paranaque Facebook)
- Luneta Park Official Website
- Manila Tourism Guide
- National Museum of the Philippines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Olivarez College
What programs does Olivarez College offer?
It offers basic education, undergraduate, and graduate programs in Nursing, Business, Liberal Arts, Health Sciences, and Information Technology.
How do I schedule a campus tour?
Contact the Admissions Office through the official website or by phone to arrange a tour.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. The college offers scholarships and financial assistance to qualified students.
What are the visiting hours?
The campus is open to visitors on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Confirm with the administration in case of changes.
How do I apply for admission?
Application procedures and requirements are detailed on the Olivarez College Admissions page.
Parañaque Monument
Is there an entrance fee?
No. Admission is free.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are offered on weekends and public holidays.
What are the visiting hours?
The monument is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Is the site accessible for persons with disabilities?
Yes. It has ramps and paved pathways.
Can I take photos?
Yes, but visitors should avoid damaging the site.
Rizal Monument
Is there an entrance fee?
No. Entry is free.
What are the visiting hours?
The monument and park are open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Is the site accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The monument and park have paved paths and ramps.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are available through official channels.
What other historical sites are nearby?
Intramuros and the National Museum of the Philippines are nearby attractions.