Science and Technology in the Philippines
Science and Technology in the Philippines: Programs-
, Personalities, and Education
This document combines three files related to Science and Technology in the Philippines,-
providing a comprehensive overview of government programs, prominent Filipino scientists, and-
the state of science education.
Programs and Personalities in Science and Technology in the-
Philippines
Learning Objectives:
◦ Identify government science and technology programs.
◦ Identify Filipino scientists in different fields.
◦ Discuss the contributions of these Filipino scientists in nation-building.
Government Programs to Support the Development of Science & Technology:
The Philippine government, through the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), actively-
supports various programs to promote scientific advancement and technological development.-
Some key initiatives include:
◦ Funding for Basic Research and Patents: The DOST provides financial support for research-
projects and encourages the patenting of scientific discoveries and inventions.
◦ Scholarships for Science and Technology Studies: Scholarships are offered to Filipino students-
pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in science and technology fields.
◦ Expansion of the Philippine Science High School System: The government is expanding the-
network of Philippine Science High Schools, which provide specialized education in science and-
mathematics.
◦ Establishment of Science and Technology Parks: These parks provide infrastructure and support-
for research, development, and innovation, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and-
government.
◦ Balik Scientist Program: This program encourages Filipino scientists working abroad to return to-
the Philippines and contribute their expertise to national development.
◦
National Science Complex and National Engineering Complex: These facilities, located within-
the University of the Philippines campus in Diliman, provide state-of-the-art research infrastructure-
and resources.
Capacity Building Programs:
The Philippine-American Academy of Science and Engineering (PAAASE) has identified numerous-
capacity building programs aimed at strengthening the scientific and technological workforce:
◦ National Centers of Excellence: These centers specialize in specific areas of science, technology,-
and engineering, providing advanced research and training opportunities.
◦ Human Resource Development Programs: Programs like the Engineering and Science Education-
Program (ESEP) aim to increase the number of Filipinos with doctoral degrees in science and-
technology.
◦ Regional Centers of Research and Development: These centers promote regional innovation and-
address specific local challenges.
◦ Science and Technology Business Centers: These centers provide guidance and support for-
aspiring technopreneurs, helping them develop and commercialize their ideas.
◦ Intensified Science Education: The Philippine Science High School system plays a crucial role in-
fostering scientific literacy and nurturing future generations of scientists.
Other Areas of Focus:
The Philippines is actively pursuing research and development in various areas, including:
◦ Alternative and Safe Energy Sources: Exploring renewable energy options to reduce dependence-
on fossil fuels.
◦ Mineral Resource Harnessing: Developing sustainable methods for extracting and utilizing mineral-
resources.
◦ Disease and Illness Cures: Investing in research to find cures for prevalent diseases and illnesses.
◦ Climate Change and Global Warming: Addressing the challenges posed by climate change through-
mitigation and adaptation strategies.
◦ Increased Food Production: Improving agricultural practices to enhance food security.
◦ Natural Resource Preservation: Protecting and managing natural resources for future generations.
◦ Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation: Developing strategies to cope with natural disasters and-
calamities.
◦ Infrastructure Development: Investing in infrastructure projects to support economic growth and-
development.
Prominent Filipino Scientists:
The Philippines has produced numerous outstanding scientists who have made significant-
contributions to their respective fields:
◦ Ramon Cabanos Barba: Known for his groundbreaking research on tissue culture in Philippine-
mangoes.
◦ Lourdes Jansuy Cruz: A renowned scientist whose research on sea snail venom has led to the-
development of potential pain relievers.
◦ Josefino Cacas Cosimo: Recognized for his work on observing the characteristics of Antarctica using-
satellite images.
◦ Fabian Millar Dayrit: A pioneer in the field of herbal medicine, conducting research on the medicinal-
properties of Philippine plants.
◦ Jose Bejar Cruz, Jr.: An internationally recognized scientist in the field of electrical engineering,-
serving as an officer of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
◦ Mari-Jo Panganiban Ruiz: An outstanding educator and graph theorist, making significant-
contributions to mathematics.
◦ Rafael Dineros Guerrero III: Known for his research on tilapia culture, contributing to the-
development of sustainable aquaculture practices.
◦ Lilian Formalejo Patena: A leading researcher in plant biotechnology, working on improving crop-
yields and resilience.
◦ Gregory Ligot Tangonan: A pioneer in the field of communications technology, contributing to-
advancements in telecommunications.
◦ Enrique Mapua Ostera, Jr.: Recognized for his research on drug development, contributing to the-
pharmaceutical industry.
Other Notable Filipino Scientists:
◦ Caesar A. Saloma: An internationally recognized physicist, making significant contributions to-
theoretical physics.
◦ Edgardo Gomez: A renowned marine scientist, conducting research on coral reefs and marine-
biodiversity.
◦ William Padolina: A prominent chemist and former president of the National Academy of Science-
and Technology (NAST), advocating for scientific advancement in the Philippines.
◦ Angel Alcala: A leading marine scientist, known for his work on coral reef conservation and marine-
biodiversity.
◦ Emil Q. Javier: A renowned agricultural scientist, known for his work on developing rural agriculture-
and improving food security.
Factors Influencing Scientific Interest:
Several factors contribute to the development of scientific interest among Filipinos:
◦ School Science: The quality of science education in schools plays a crucial role in fostering scientific-
curiosity and knowledge.
◦ Science Laboratories: Access to well-equipped science laboratories provides students with hands--
on learning experiences and opportunities for experimentation.
◦ Teachers and Family: Teachers and family members can inspire and encourage students to pursue-
careers in science.
◦ Real-life Context: Connecting scientific concepts to real-life applications and challenges can make-
science more engaging and relevant.
◦ Natural Environment: The Philippines' diverse natural environment provides a rich context for-
scientific exploration and discovery.
Filipino Scientists' Contributions:
Filipino scientists, both in the Philippines and abroad, have consistently excelled in their-
respective fields. Their contributions have brought honor to the country and demonstrated the-
Filipino spirit of perseverance and innovation. Despite limited resources, Filipino scientists have-
achieved remarkable breakthroughs and continue to make significant contributions to global-
scientific advancement.
The Philippine Government Science and Technology Agenda
Learning Objectives:
◦ Examine the role of science and technology in nation-building.
◦ Analyze the contributions of government policies on science and technology to the social and-
economic growth of the country.
Brief Historical Background of Science & Technology in the Philippines:
Science and technology in the Philippines have a rich history, shaped by various influences:
Pre-Colonial Period:
◦ Indigenous Knowledge and Skills: Filipinos developed knowledge and skills in agriculture,-
medicine, astronomy, and technology.
◦ Banaue Rice Terraces: A testament to the ingenuity of pre-colonial Filipinos in agricultural-
engineering.
◦ Medical Properties of Plants: Filipinos possessed a deep understanding of the medicinal properties-
of plants, utilizing them for healthcare.
◦ Astronomy and Timekeeping: Filipinos observed heavenly bodies to predict weather patterns and-
tell time.
◦ Indigenous Technology: Filipinos developed tools and technologies for building homes, farming,-
fishing, hunting, and irrigation.
◦ Cultural Exchange: Filipinos engaged in cultural exchange with other nations, sharing knowledge-
and technologies.
Colonial Period:
◦ Spanish Influence: The Spanish colonization brought its own culture and practices, influencing-
Filipino society.
◦ School System: The Spanish established schools patterned after those in Spain, introducing formal-
education in science.
◦ Technology Transfer: The Spanish introduced technologies for sugar production, tobacco cultivation-
, and mining.
◦ Galleon Trade: The galleon trade facilitated economic and cultural exchanges between the-
Philippines, Spain, and other Spanish colonies.
◦ American Influence: The American colonization further expanded science and technology in the-
Philippines.
◦ Public Education System: The Americans established a public education system, promoting literacy-
and scientific knowledge.
◦ Modern Research University: The Americans established the University of the Philippines, the first-
modern research university in the country.
◦ Health Initiatives: The Americans introduced modern healthcare practices and established-
hospitals and health centers.
◦ English as Medium of Instruction: The introduction of English as a medium of instruction facilitated-
access to scientific knowledge and research.
◦ Pensionados Program: The Americans provided scholarships for Filipino students to study in the-
United States, fostering scientific expertise.
World War II:
◦ Economic Setbacks: The war significantly weakened the country's economic growth.
◦ Infrastructure Damage: Institutions, public facilities, and houses were destroyed, hindering progress.
◦ Reconstruction Efforts: Reparation funds from Japan were used to rebuild infrastructure and-
support technological training.
Post-Colonial Period:
◦ Independence and Nation-Building: The Philippines gained independence and focused on-
rebuilding the country.
◦ Overseas Development Aid: The country utilized overseas development aid from the United States-
and Japan to develop human resources.
◦ Science and Technology Programs: The government invested in science, engineering, medicine,-
technology, and agricultural programs.
◦ Improved Basic Education: The teaching of basic education at all levels was improved, laying a-
foundation for scientific literacy.
Internal and External Influences on Science and Technology:
The development of science and technology in the Philippines has been shaped by both internal-
and external influences:
Internal Influences:
◦ Survival: The need to adapt and survive in a challenging environment has driven innovation.
◦ Culture: Filipino culture has emphasized creativity, resourcefulness, and community cooperation.
◦ Economy: Economic needs have driven the development of technologies for agriculture, industry, and-
trade.
◦ Politics: Government policies and priorities have influenced the direction of science and technology-
development.
◦ Human Resource Development: Investing in education and training has been crucial for developing-
a skilled workforce.
External Influences:
◦ Foreign Influence: Colonization and globalization have introduced new technologies and ideas.
◦ Trade with Foreign Countries: International trade has facilitated the exchange of goods,-
technologies, and knowledge.
◦ International Economic Demands: Global economic trends have influenced the development of-
specific technologies and industries.
Government Policies on Science and Technology:
The National Research Council of the Philippines (NCRP) has recommended policies and-
programs to enhance the Philippines' competitiveness in the ASEAN region. These policies are-
clustered into four categories:
Cluster 1: Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, and International Policies and-
Governance:
◦ Local Food Security: Promoting sustainable agriculture and food production to ensure food security.
◦ ASEAN Awareness in Education: Integrating ASEAN awareness into basic education without adding-
to the curriculum.
◦ School Infrastructure and ICT: Developing school infrastructure and providing access to ICT-
broadband.
◦ Mother Tongue Education: Emphasizing teaching in the mother tongue to improve learning-
outcomes.
Cluster 2: Physics, Engineering and Industrial Research, Earth and Space Sciences and-
Mathematics:
◦ Science and Technology as a Driver of Development: Utilizing science and technology as an-
independent force for development.
◦ Evaluation of Government Procurement Reform Act: Reviewing the implementation of Republic-
Act 9184 to ensure efficiency and transparency.
◦ Outright Grants for Peer Monitoring: Providing outright grants for peer monitoring to enhance-
research quality.
Cluster 3: Medical, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences:
◦ Evidence-Based Research: Encouraging food and drug agencies to conduct evidence-based-
research.
◦ ASEAN Harmonized Standards: Ensuring compliance of drug manufacturing firms with ASEAN-
harmonized standards.
◦ Human Genome Projects: Enacting a law supporting human genome projects.
◦ Pharmaceutical Services Standardization: Establishing an education council dedicated to-
standardizing pharmaceutical services.
◦ Research Funding: Allotting 2% of the GDP to research activities.
Cluster 4: Biological Sciences, Agriculture, and Forestry:
◦ Biodiversity Conservation: Protecting and preserving biodiversity through the full implementation-
of existing laws.
◦ Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Fostering indigenous knowledge systems and supporting-
indigenous people.
◦ Food Safety Standards: Creating common food and safety standards for the ASEAN region.
◦ Biosafety and Standards: Promoting biosafety and standardized practices among ASEAN countries.
Factors Influencing Science and Technology Policies:
The development of science and technology policies is influenced by several variables:
◦ National Goals: Government policies are aligned with national development goals and priorities.
◦ International Treaties: International agreements and conventions shape policy frameworks.
◦ Social Needs, Issues, and Problems: Policies address social needs, issues, and problems, seeking-
solutions through scientific and technological advancements.
Conclusion:
Science and technology policies play a critical role in ensuring that the entire country and all-
its people benefit from the progress that science can bring. By investing in research, education,-
and infrastructure, the Philippines can harness the power of science and technology to achieve-
sustainable development and improve the lives of its citizens.
Science Education in the Philippines
Learning Objectives:
◦ Identify government science and technology programs to support science education in the-
country.
◦ Review the contributions of science education in nation-building.
Introduction:
Science education encompasses both the teaching and learning of science.
◦ Teaching Science: Focuses on developing effective pedagogical theories and models to help-
teachers teach scientific concepts.
◦ Learning Science: Involves engaging students in science activities and fostering their understanding-
of scientific principles.
Science education aims to prepare citizens for a world increasingly driven by science and-
technology.
Science Education in the Philippines:
The Philippines has a robust science education system, with various programs and institutions-
dedicated to promoting scientific literacy and excellence:
University of the Philippines System:
◦ Top University: The University of the Philippines remains the leading university in the country,-
producing graduates in various scientific fields.
◦ Concentration of Scientists: The university has the largest concentration of scientists and doctoral-
degree holders in the country.
◦ World-Class Resources: The university boasts world-class laboratories and research resources.
◦ Pandemic Response: UP scientists have played a crucial role in helping the country cope with the-
challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
DOST-Funded Scholarships:
◦ Support for Deserving Students: The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) provides-
scholarships to talented Filipino students pursuing science and technology degrees.
◦ Centers of Excellence: The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has identified centers of-
excellence in autonomous universities across the country.
Science Education in Basic Education:
◦ Philippine Science High School System: Provides specialized secondary education in science and-
mathematics, nurturing future scientists.
◦ Regional Science High Schools: DEPEd maintains several regional science schools, offering a-
curriculum focused on science and mathematics.
◦ Special Science Education Project:
• Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES): These schools offer a science-focused-
curriculum starting in Grade 1.
• Extended Science Time: SSES students spend more time on science subjects, with 70 minutes-
in Grade 1 and 80 minutes in Grades IV-VI.
◦ Quezon City Regional Science High School: Established in 1967, this school offers a-
comprehensive science curriculum and serves as a regional science high school for the National-
Capital Region.
◦ Manila Science High School: Established in 1963, this school was the first science high school in-
the Philippines, offering a curriculum that includes humanities and elective courses.
Conclusion:
Science education in the Philippines plays a vital role in nation-building. By fostering scientific-
literacy, nurturing future generations of scientists, and supporting research and development, the-
Philippines can continue to advance its scientific and technological capabilities, contributing to-
social and economic progress.
