The Research Center for Theoretical Physics (RCTP) was established on 27 December 1992 by the Central Visayan Institute, Inc. (now known as Central Visayan Institute Foundation, Inc.), with the following objectives:

1. To be a haven for theoretical physicists;

2. To be a center for advanced training in theoretical physics; and

3. To develop and nurture a strong tradition of frontier research in theoretical physics in the Philippines.

These objectives have now been expanded to include mathematical and computational sciences. The RCTP is situated in the coastal town of Jagna in the southern part of Bohol Island, the Philippines' first UNESCO Global Geopark.