Science, Technology, and Nation-

building
Science in Pre-colonial Time in the
Philippines
Science in Pre-colonial Time in the
Philippines
• Early Settlements (50,000 years ago) • Trade Relations (Tenth to fifteenth
• Stone Age Technology (Around 3,000 centuries)
B.C.) • Chinese Trading Activities (1225)
• Iron Age (Second or third century B.C. • Spaniards Arrival (1565)
to tenth century A.D.) • Governor Francisco de Sande
• Arts and Agriculture (First century Observations (1575)
A.D.)
• Expert Boat-Builders (Tenth century
A.D.)
Early years of settlement (50, 000 years ago)
• Modern humans migrate from the Asian mainland to the Philippines, settling in
Palawan and Batangas.
• They begin making simple stone tools.
Stone Age Technology (Around 3,000 B.C.)
• Stone Age inhabitants settle in major Philippine islands.

• They produce adzes, seashell ornaments, and pottery.

• a tool similar to an axe, with an arched blade at right
Iron Age (2 nd century B.C. - 10th century A.D.)

• Filipinos learn to make metal tools and implements such as copper, gold,
bronze, and iron.
Arts and Agriculture (1 st century A.D.)

• Filipinos engage in weaving cotton, smelting iron, making pottery, glass

ornaments, and practicing agriculture, including rice cultivation.
Expert Boat-Builders (10 th Century A.D.)

• Filipino boat-building technology becomes highly developed, evidenced by

advanced plank-built warships called caracoas.
• Pirate ship faster than galleon ships
Trade Relations (10-15 th centuries)

• Regular trade relations are established between the Philippines and China, as
well as other neighboring regions like Borneo, Malacca, and parts of the
Malay peninsula.
Chinese Trades (1225)
• Chinese account by Chao Ju-Kua describes trading activities between the
islands of Ma-I (Mait, currently Mindoro) and San-hsu (three islands) with
China.
Spaniards Arrival (1565)
• The Spaniards arrive in the Philippines and encounter scattered autonomous
village communities (barangays) with varying levels of technological
development.
Governor Francisco de Sande
Observations (1575)
• Governor Francisco de Sande observes that Filipinos primarily engage in
activities necessary for survival, indicating limited pressure for invention and
innovation.
Spanish Occupation’s Contribution
• Introduction of Western Medicine
• Architectural and Engineering Heritage
• Agricultural Innovations
• Language and Literature
• Navigation and Cartography
Introduction of Western Medicine
Spanish colonization brought Western medical practices to the Philippines.
While traditional Filipino healing methods persisted, Spanish missionaries
and medical practitioners introduced concepts of anatomy, surgery, and
pharmacology. They established hospitals and dispensaries to provide
medical care, although these facilities were rudimentary compared to those
in Europe.
Architectural and Engineering Heritage
Spanish colonizers left a lasting legacy in the Philippines through their architectural
and engineering achievements. They constructed churches, forts, bridges, and
other infrastructure using European techniques and designs. These structures, such
as the churches in Intramuros, Manila, and various Spanish-era bridges, continue to
stand as testament to Spanish engineering prowess.
Agricultural Innovations
Spanish colonizers introduced new crops and agricultural
techniques to the Philippines. They promoted the cultivation of
cash crops such as tobacco, indigo, and sugarcane for export to
other Spanish colonies. They also established haciendas (large
estates) and introduced irrigation systems to improve
agricultural productivity.
Language and Literature
While not strictly in the realm of science and technology, the Spanish language
became widespread in the Philippines during the colonial period. Spanish
missionaries and educators used the language to disseminate knowledge and
facilitate communication. Additionally, Spanish literature and written records
provided insights into scientific and technological developments in Europe during
that time.
Navigation and Cartography
Spanish explorers and navigators played a significant role in mapping the
Philippines and the surrounding region. They produced detailed charts and maps
that aided subsequent exploration and trade. Additionally, Spanish ships facilitated
the exchange of goods and ideas between the Philippines and other parts of the
Spanish Empire, contributing to the transfer of scientific knowledge.
Legal and Administrative Systems
While not directly related to science and technology, the Spanish colonial
administration established legal and administrative structure that provided stability
and governance in the Philippines. These systems laid the groundwork for
subsequent developments in education, healthcare, and public infrastructure,
which are essential components of a conducive environment for scientific and
technological
American Occupation’s Contribution (1898 to
1946)
• Establishment of a Modern Education System
• Foundation of the University of the Philippines (UP)
• Promotion of Engineering and Technical Education
• Public Health:
• Improved Scientific Research:
• Introduction of Modern Technologies
• Rise of Research Institutions
Establishment of a Modern Education
System
The Americans introduced a modern, secular public education system in the
Philippines. This included the establishment of public schools, the training of
Filipino teachers, and the development of a standardized curriculum. The emphasis
on science and mathematics in the educational system laid the foundation for
advancements in scientific knowledge and technological innovation.
Foundation of the University of the
Philippines (1908)
The UP became the premier institution of higher learning in the Philippines.
Modeled after American universities, UP provided education in various fields,
including science and technology. It served as a center for research and innovation,
producing many Filipino scientists, engineers, and innovators.
Promotion of Engineering and Technical
Education
The American regime recognized the importance of engineering and technical
education for national development. Efforts were made to establish engineering
schools and vocational training centers across the country to meet the demand for
skilled workers in industries such as construction, transportation, and
manufacturing.
Public Health
The Americans implemented public health initiatives aimed at improving
sanitation, disease prevention, and healthcare delivery in the Philippines. They
built hospitals, laboratories, and public health infrastructure to combat infectious
diseases and improve overall health outcomes. These efforts contributed to
advances in medical science and public health research.
Improved Scientific Research
American institutions and organizations provided support for scientific research
and exploration in the Philippines. The Philippine Weather Bureau, established by
the Americans, conducted meteorological studies and collected data on weather
patterns, typhoons, and earthquakes. Scientific expeditions and archaeological
surveys were also sponsored to study the country's natural resources and cultural
heritage.
Introduction of Modern Technologies
The American occupation introduced modern technologies to the Philippines,
including telecommunications, transportation, and manufacturing equipment. The
construction of roads, bridges, and ports improved connectivity and facilitated
trade and commerce. Modern machinery and industrial processes were also
introduced to enhance productivity and efficiency in various sectors.
Rise of Research Institutions
The Americans established research institutions and government agencies to
promote scientific inquiry and technological innovation in the Philippines. These
included the Bureau of Science, which conducted research in agriculture, forestry,
fisheries, and other scientific disciplines. The agency played a crucial role in
developing new technologies and improving agricultural practices to enhance food
security and economic development.
Science and technology since
Independence (1946 onwards)
• 1946: Establishment of education and training patterns inherited from the
American regime, laying the foundation for the educational system.
• 1950: Bell Mission report provides recommendations for improving scientific
work coordination.
• The Bell Mission refers to a group of experts led by John T. Bell, who was appointed by the
Philippine government in the early 1950s to assess and provide recommendations for the
development of science and technology in the country. The mission was commissioned due
to concerns about the lack of support and coordination hindering scientific progress. The
recommendations made by the Bell Mission report aimed to address these shortcomings and
lay the groundwork for improving scientific research, education, and technological
development in the Philippines.

• 1951: Reorganization of the Institute of Science into the Institute of Science and
Technology, focusing on industrial processes and technological development.
• 1958: Science Act establishes the National Science Development Board (NSDB)
for coordinating science agencies.
• 1960s: Government expands support for science and technology, creating more
science agencies.
• 1974: National science development program integrated into the Four-Year
Development Plan.
• 1982: NSDB restructured into the National Science and Technology Authority
(NSTA) with expanded functions.
• 1983: Establishment of a national network of centers of excellence in basic
sciences and Scientific Career System in the Civil Service to attract and retain
scientific talent.
2015 Onwards
ASEAN Agenda 2015
• known as the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2015, aimed to
establish an integrated economic community among member states of the
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) by the end of 2015. It focused on
creating a single market and production base, promoting competitiveness,
ensuring equitable economic development, and integrating into the global
economy. Key objectives included eliminating trade barriers, fostering innovation,
and strengthening economic ties. Though the target date has passed, member
states continue to work towards deeper economic cooperation and integration
within the region.
In response to ASEAN 2015 Agenda implemented several policies
• The Philippine government, particularly the Department of Science and
Technology (DOST), collaborated with the National Research Council of the
Philippines (NCRP) to prepare for ASEAN 2015 Goals.
• Recommendations from NCRP consultations were aimed at improving the
competitiveness of the Philippines in the ASEAN region across various
sectors.
Four (4) Clustered NCRP Policies
1. Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, International Policies and
Governance
2. Physics, Engineering and Industrial Research, Earth and Space Sciences,
and Mathematics
3. Medical, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences
4. Biological Sciences, Agriculture, and Forestry
Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, International
Policies and Governance
• Integrating ASEAN awareness in basic education without adding to the
curriculum
• Emphasizing teaching in the mother tongue
• Developing school infrastructure and providing for ICT broadband
• Information Communication Technology
• Local food security
Physics, Engineering and Industrial Research, Earth and
Space Sciences, and Mathematics
• Emphasizing degrees, licenses, and employment opportunities
• Outright grants for peer monitoring
• Review/revision of R.A. 9184
• Harnessing science and technology as an independent mover of development
Medical, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Ensuring compliance of drug-manufacturing firms with ASEAN-harmonized
standards by full implementation of the Food and Drug Administration
• Creating an education council dedicated standardization of pharmaceutical
services and care to
• Empowering food and drug agencies to conduct evidence- based research
as pool of information
• Allocating two percent of the GDP to research
• Legislating a law supporting human genome projects
Biological Sciences, Agriculture, and Forestry
• Protecting and conserving biodiversity by full implementation of existing laws
• Use of biosafety and standard model by ASEAN countries
• Promoting indigenous knowledge systems and indigenous people's conservation
• Formulation of common food and safety standards
The Philippine government, through the
Department of Science and Technology (DOST),
supports various initiatives to advance science
and technology.

• Government funds basic research and

patents, with additional support from
Overseas Development Aid.
• Scholarships are offered for science and
technology education at undergraduate and
graduate levels, emphasizing doctoral studies
and research.
• Expansion of science education includes
establishing more branches of the Philippine
Science High School System.
• Science and Technology Parks are created to
foster partnerships between academia and
industry.
• The Balik Scientist Program encourages
Filipino scientists abroad to return or
collaborate on local projects.
• National Science and Engineering Complexes
aim to develop manpower and promote
research.
• Capacity-building programs establish centers
of excellence and support regional industries.
• Science education initiatives improve basic
education in science and mathematics, with
STEM tracks in the K to 12 program.
• The PCARI Project facilitates collaboration
between Philippine and US institutions on
research in various fields.
These aim to enhance scientific literacy,
research capacity, and technological
competitiveness in the Philippines.
There are many other areas and fields that the country is looking forward to
embark various research and projects. The following are some of them:
1. Use of alternative and safe energy
2. Harnessing mineral resources
3. Finding cure for various diseases and illness
4. Climate change and global warming
5. Increasing food production
6. Preservation of natural resources
7.Coping with natural disasters and calamities
8 . Infrastructure development
Science
and National Goals
Technology
Problems International Treaty
Programs
Legal Frameworks
Projects

Social Needs, Issues, and Problems

These Filipino scientists are:
1. Ramon Cabanos Barba for his outstanding research on tissue culture in Philippine mangoes
2. Josefino Cacas Comiso for his works on observing the characteristics of Antarctica by using
satellite images
3. Jose Bejar Cruz Jr. known internationally in the field of electrical engineering; was elected as
officer of the famous Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
4. Lourdes Jansuy Cruz notable for her research on sea snail venom
5. Fabian Millar Dayrit for his research on herbal medicine
6. Rafael Dineros Guerrero III - for his research on tilapia culture
7. Enrique Mapua Ostrea Jr. drugs testing for inventing the meconium
8. Lilian Formalejo Patena biotechnology for doing research on plant
9. Mari-Jo Panganiban Ruiz - for being an outstanding educator and graph theorist
10. Gregory Ligot Tangonan communications technology for his research in the field of
Science Education in the
Philippines
Concept of Science Education
• Teaching, Learning, and Understanding Science
• Learning by Utilization of Natural Environment
• Competency
Teaching, Learning, and Understanding
Science:
• Involves effective teaching methodologies and fostering student
understanding and appreciation for science.
• Basic education focuses on teaching important scientific concepts, skills, and
attitudes essential for everyday life.
• Tertiary education emphasizes understanding and appreciation of science
ideas and prepares students for science-related careers.
Utilization of Natural Environment for
Learning
• John Dewey emphasized using the natural environment to provide
meaningful learning experiences for students.
Competency
• Science education is essential due to the vast scientific knowledge available,
preparing citizens for a technologically driven world.
• It equips individuals with skills and knowledge necessary for living in an age
dominated by science and technology.
Government-supported Science Schools
in the Philippines
• Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS)
• Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES)
• Quezon City Regional Science High School:
• Manila Science High School:
• Central Visayan Institute Foundation:
Philippine Science
High School System
(PSHSS)
• Offers free scholarships
specialized in science education.
Special Science
Elementary Schools
(SSES) Project
• Develops scientific and technological
knowledge, skills, and values among
elementary students.
Quezon City
Regional Science
High School
• Provides opportunities for science-
gifted students with a curriculum
focusing on science and technology.
Manila Science High
School
• The first science high school in
the Philippines with a curriculum
emphasizing science and
mathematics.
Central Visayan
Institute
Foundation
• Pioneers innovative pedagogical
approaches and hosts a
Research Center for Theoretical
Physics.
Indigenous Science and
Technology in the Philippines
Indigenous Science and
Technology in the
Philippines