Established as the Institute of Asian Studies, the Asian Center is commemorating its 58th anniversary on 27 November 2013.
The Asian Center is the University of the Philippines' only unit with a regional area of specialization. It offers graduate level multidisciplinary academic programs on Asian studies (including Philippine studies), and its faculty conduct research on a broad range of political, economic, social and cultural issues affecting Asia and the Pacific. The Asian Center's mandate is underpinned by law, Republic Act 5334.
The Asian Center conducts research for the promotion and advancement of studies on Asia. In 1968, this Institute was formally reorganized through Republic Act 5334 to become the Asian Center. For a brief interlude (1973 to 1979), the Center was absorbed by the Philippine Center for Advanced Studies, but reverted to its original status through a Board of Regents decision at its 919th meeting.
To celebrate its 58th year, the Asian Center decided to defer any festivities and opted to donate the money to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan, international name), which struck the central Philippines on November 8.