The University seal has as its basic features those found in the seal of Philippine Union College (PUC), its predecessor. The torch of salvation, through Christian education, is aflame, enlightening those who come to the university, and, through its alumni, the regions beyond.
Although the university is located in the Philippines, as signified by the map, and is the only Seventh-day Adventist university in the country, the seal shows the university's international and global scope, as depicted by the globe. Students from countries around the world come to AUP to be trained for service. Alumni of the university serve as its extensions in influencing people of the world.
The laurels encircling the globe portray the accomplishments and successes the university has gained through its programs and graduates. The laurels, however, are reminders that excellence is the institution's goal, as enunciated by the slogan it has held since its establishment in 1917, "ON EVER ONWARD." The four boxes in the background, upon which the globe and the laurels rest represent the four-fold foundation of Seventh-day Adventist Education: the physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of the person. Since education "has to do with the whole being," the university offers curricula that are holistic in their approach.
As an educational institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, AUP believes in the imminent coming of Jesus Christ and it rejoices in being able to participate in the proclamation of this Good News clarioned by the trumpets of the Three Angels of Revelation 14.
The unbroken circle which encompasses the whole seal and what it stands for symbolizes the Deity - the Alpha and the Omega, without beginning and without end. Everything the university offers and stands for are ordained by Him who is the Source of all true education.
The design of the seal shows formality and equality. The university believes that every individual will be treated with fairness. The Herculaneum font highlights the antique design of the seal and reminds everyone that while the university status was granted only on the Collegiate Year (CY) 1996-1997, the institution was established in 1917 and the principles on which it was founded are as old as eternity.
Dr. Reuben R. Rafanan
Former AUP President