Ateneo de Manila is just one of the premiere schools of learning near Katipunan Avenue.
“Saan ang tambayan mo sa Katipunan?” (Where do you hang out in Katipunan?)
Ask any graduate of UP, Ateneo, Miriam and other schools within or near Diliman, Quezon City, and chances are, you will be answered with much sentimentality and enthusiasm. With its numerous cafés, restaurants and condominiums, Katipunan Avenue, today, is the ultimate student’s haven.
Prior to being one, however, Katipunan had served as the passageway to Banlat, Balintawak and Pugad Lawin, which are territories formerly held by Filipino revolutionaries during the Spanish period. Its name therefore came about to honor the group composed of these brave heroes—the Kataastaasan, Kagalanggalangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan.
Besides its rich history and vibrant commercial offerings, there is a lot more to discover about Katipunan Avenue. Let us take a look at some of the reasons why you ought to visit this famous strip—or better yet, call it home.
Length and landmarks
Officially, Katipunan Avenue spans a lengthy route, from White Plains Avenue near Edsa to Magsaysay Avenue near the University of the Philippines Diliman campus. Many of its habitual visitors, however, often go to the strip fronting Ateneo de Manila University and Miriam College.
The Church of Latter Day Saints along White Plains marks the end of Katipunan Avenue.
Unknown to many, Katipunan Avenue is filled with many notable landmarks. The Manila Philippines Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stands on its southern tip. The church was built from 1981 to 1984 and is the first temple of the Mormons built in the Philippines. The nearby Ugong Community Center contains a monument of the late Quezon City Mayor Ismael A. “Mel” Mathay Jr., created by the sculptor Jonas Roces.
The Monasterio de Santa Clara, which stands at the intersection of Katipunan Avenue and Aurora Boulevard, is also another church to visit. Catering to Catholic Mass-goers and worshippers, the monastery is famous for encouraging egg offerings among devotees. It particularly attracts people who are praying to pass board exams or the Philippine Bar exam.
Last among our religious landmarks is the Our Lady of the Pentecost Parish, which contains artworks by sculptor Juan Sajid Imao and National Artist Napoleón Abueva.
Educational institutions
Katipunan Avenue is probably most famous for its educational institutions. It is home to some of the country’s top performing schools in Metro Manila.
The University of the Philippines main campus is located at C.P. Garcia Street, which is directly connected to Katipunan Avenue. The country’s national university contains some architectural gems and natural beauties, such as Quezon Hall, Carillon Tower and the Sunken Garden.
This length of road fronting Miriam College and Ateneo de Manila University is often frequented by students.
The Ateneo de Manila University, meanwhile, is a private institution that stands right in front of Katipunan Avenue. Run by the Society of Jesus, the university is considered the highest-ranked private university in the country.
Lastly, Miriam College is a school that caters primarily to girls and women. The institution offers preschool to post graduate programs and counts Miss Universe winners, politicians and actresses among its notable alumni.
Residences
Katipunan Avenue is rich in history and commercial offerings.
The proximity of Katipunan Avenue to schools and offices in Quezon City makes the area in-demand in terms of housing. Besides its exciting offerings, Katipunan Avenue is home to several mid-rise dormitories and condominiums, which were built to primarily cater to students in the area. Also nearby are exclusive subdivisions like Loyola Heights, Blue Ridge, Xavierville and White Plains.
A strategic location offering the essentials, Katipunan Avenue is the ultimate place to gain an education, raise a family or pursue a career.
A rich history and a bright future
All in all, Katipunan Avenue is a vibrant place that offers something for every person. Whether you’re visiting the place for entertainment, schooling, shopping or house-hunting, the avenue can surely provide for your needs. Head over to this historical strip and allow it to lead you to your dreams and a better life.
Sources: Judgefloro Robert Alfie S. Peña and Patrickroque01 via Wikimedia Commons; churchofjesuschrist.org; lakansining.wordpress.com