July 11, 2025 Tambay at UPLB Freedom Park on a lazy 2pm hot thursday afternoon. it is currently on a sem break during time of recording ---------------------- University of the Philippines Los Banos The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB; Filipino: Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Los Baños), also referred to as UP Los Baños or colloquially as Elbi (pronounced ['ɛlbi]), is a public research university primarily located in the towns of Los Baños and Bay in the province of Laguna, some 65 kilometers southeast of Manila. It traces its roots to the UP College of Agriculture (UPCA), which was founded in 1909 by the American colonial government to promote agricultural education and research in the Philippines. American botanist Edwin Copeland served as its first dean. UPLB was formally established in 1972 following the union of UPCA with four other Los Baños and Diliman-based University of the Philippines (UP) units. === UPLB’s Freedom Park, also called DL Umali Freedom Park or F‑Park, is the university’s largest open field — a multipurpose green space surrounded by century-old trees and iconic landmarks. It’s beloved by students, locals, and visitors for both relaxation and activities 🌿 What Makes It Special 1. A Hub for Sports & Recreation The oval field is perfect for football, ultimate frisbee, jogging, zumba, and more Popular jogging routes: one full loop (~1.3 km) around upper and lower grounds, especially popular at sunrise or around 5 PM when it's cooler . Walking paths of 0.3 to 0.5 miles (~500 to 1,000 steps) are rated easy and ideal for casual exercise 2. Iconic Landmarks Rizal Centenary Carillon Tower and Fertility Tree mark one end; DL Umali Auditorium sits at the opposite end Bench-lined perimeter at upper grounds, known as the ‘marble seats,’ provides cozy hang-out spots Wanderlog . 3. Cultural and Community Events Venue for major campus occasions: FebFair, UPLB commencement exercises, Pride Month events like “Ride with Pride,” Bañamos Festival parades and drone shows Envisioned as UPLB’s counterpart to UP Diliman’s Sunken Garden 4. Relaxation & Study Spot Popular for picnics, stargazing, chatting or just lounging on the grass after classes . Benches and shady groves make it a peaceful alternative to indoor study spots 📍 Quick Facts Feature Details Area ~14.2 acres Perimeter routes ~0.3–0.5 mile loops Accessibility Open 24/7 (campus hours) Seasonality Can get muddy in rainy season, but there's covered grass for alternative use Pacer Wanderlog 💡 Tips & Insights from Students Best times to visit: Early morning (5:30 AM+) and late afternoon/evening (~5 PM) are most popular and pleasant Reddit . Jogging route suggestion: Start near CEM shed → pass Main Lib → end in Freedom Park; extend via Pili Drive for scenic views Getting there from Calamba: Ride UP College jeep from SM Calamba or Crossing, tell driver you’re going to Freedom Park. Fares are low (approx ₱35) 🎓 Why It’s Beloved Symbolizes the freedom of space—a wide green field for students and locals to freely express, protest, celebrate, and thrive . Hosts both quiet moments (like stargazing or solo runs) and noisy gatherings (like festivals and pride rides), offering a balance for different campus experiences. ✅ Summary Freedom Park is more than just a field—it’s F‑Park: a living space of fitness, friendship, protest, celebration, and study. Its iconic scenery, cultural importance, and open vibe make it a must-visit landmark in UPLB.
