From its original mission to educate and serve the less privileged by deserving students of Manila, PLM has developed into a caring university committed to develop professionals, leaders, and citizens dedicated to the progressive transformation of the City of Manila and the nation.

PLM, whose motto is "Katarungan, Kaunlaran, Kadakilaan (Wisdom, Prosperity, Honor)," has received many citations from various government institutions. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has cited PLM as a Center of Excellence for its track record as a model university for all locally supported institutions of tertiary learning to emulate. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo cited PLM for its "Culture of Excellence" and for its numerous accomplishments in various fields of studies.

PLM has demonstrated that education is a powerful means for promoting not only individual but national progress as well. It has shown that educational institutions are the government’s partners in making a strong nation.

We congratulate the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila headed by its Chairman of the Board of Regents former Supreme Court Justice Justo P. Torres Jr. and President Dr. Benjamin G. Tayabas, its other Officials, Faculty, Students, and Staff, particularly the City Government of Manila headed by His Honor, Mayor Jose L. Atienza Jr., Vice Mayor Danilo B. Lacuña, and Councilors on the occasion of their 41st Anniversary. We wish them all success in their endeavors.