Converting a mountain bike to a urban commuter While cleaning up our storage room I saw my dad's old bike collecting dust on a corner (he used to bike a lot before) so I asked him if I can have it and he said yes.



So for my question can I transform this bike into a commuter or am I better-off selling it and buying a new commuter bike? Though I really like to keep this one for some sentimental reasons rather than to sell it. 

My budget is also limited, still finishing my college degree. I'll be using this going to my university and back, though I live in the city our roads/bicycle lanes here in Manila, Philippines are terrible.
Feelings are definitely very important, but a dual suspension bike with a two-crown fork is a difficult start for a commuter bike. Especially if your budget is limited.

I would think that you should inflate the tires well and take a ride to school to see what it's like in its current condition. If you can block suspension, that might help.  I guess if you love or hate your first ride, it'd be a part of an answer to your question.

If it's neither a bliss nor a hell of a ride, you could ask a more specific question, e.g., for advice on particular problems you experience. A possible way out is to sell certain components (such as the fork) and buy new ones that would fit your purpose better.

But yeah, after all, it's a beautiful machine, personally I'd try hard to keep it. Good luck!