The books and papers of Guillermo B. Guevara, founder of criminology in the Philippines, were deeded for donation to the University of the Philippines Library on August 24, 1973. They were finally donated to the library in 1976 through the efforts of Federico Mangahas, former U.P. Information and Alumni Relations Director.

The papers of Judge Guillermo B. Guevara cover the period from 1915 to 1977, although the bulk of the material begins in 1947. They consist primarily of correspondence, speeches, writings, memorabilia and clippings, supplemented by diaries, court papers and photographs.

The papers for the period of his tenure as member of the Code Commission are especially useful for persons interested in the Civil Code and penal sciences. As chief drafter of the Code of Crimes, much of his correspondence from 1971 to 1974 are reflective of his vigorous push for the approval of the Code of Crimes.

Guevara's role as a graft buster under the term of President Roman Magsaysay in 1955-1956 drew nationwide attention. This episode is documented by voluminous newspaper clippings on the investigation of cases mostly connected with the administration of the import and the exchange control system.

The papers also provide an insight into Philippine business and industry. The series on correspondence and financial records show his extensive financial ventures particularly his investments in the rubber industry.

The book collection, totaling approximately 690 volumes, covers penal sciences, economics, history, literature and philosophy. Three priceless major Amorsolo paintings owned by the Guillermo B. Guevara Foundation are permanently on exhibition in the Guillermo B. Guevara Room located on the second floor of the Main Library.

Judge Guillermo Guevara passed the bar examination without formal law course (self-study) in 1912. He took his Master of Laws at the Georgetown University in 1916. In 1921-1942, he was a professorial lecturer on criminal law at the University of the Philippines Diliman.

To interested researchers of the Guillermo Guevara Collection, you may contact the Librarian’s Office of the UP Main Library at (632)981.8500 local 2852 to schedule a visit or ask inquiries regarding the said collection.