Science and Technology Throughout the History of the Philippines

 

 Development of science and technology from the pre-colonial times up to the present

                  Pre-colonial - Filipinos are already utilizing herbs for medical use. They had an alphabet, number, and measuring systems. Banaue Rice Terraces is a good example of early engineering products of early Filipinos.

                  Colonial Period – Health and education has been established by the Spanish era. Various scientific advancements have been introduced in American era such as in agriculture, food processing, forestry, medicine, and pharmacy. The Philippines was more inclined towards modernization at this period

                  Post-colonial – PAGASA and DOST was established. Infrastructures such as roads, bridges, power plants, schools and hospitals are the main development in this period. The Philippines also began innovating and opened trades with other countries. 

Achievements in the field of science and technology from president Marcos up to the Duterte administration

      A. Ferdinand Marcos

                  Marcos’ government prioritized the development science and technology in the country. He created PAGASA, DOST, Health Sciences Center and other scientific organizations.

      B. Corazon Aquino

                  Signed bill that established the Philippine Inventors and Invention Incentives – FFTC. RA 6655 Science for the Masses Program which open opportunities for children to study for free anything related to science and technology.

     

C. Fidel Ramos

            Established two Philippine Science High Schools in Visayas and Mindanao. Provided 3,500 scholarships for students taking professions related to Science and Technology. Improved the state of education by giving training programs for teachers and high-tech equipments for students.

D. Joseph Estrada

            Protected and preserved the environment and its natural resources by signing the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999. He also signed Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 to provide opportunities for newly-established business with the rise of internet.

E. Gloria Arroyo

            Developed STI (Science, Technology, and Innovations) to help schools get more involve in the development of science and technology by organizing events and sponsorships.

F. Benigno Aquino

            The most significant contribution of Benigno Aquino is the K-12 Program. It adds 2 years to the basic education system. It prepares high school students to the professions they want to become. K-12 provides ABM, GAS, and STEM. It also opens opportunities for students to work internationally.

G. Rodrigo Duterte

            He signed the Balik Scientist Law which gives incentives to returning Filipino experts who would like to share their expertise in the country. Scientists are given the opportunity to mentor science and engineering students by teaching and other activities. Science and technology helps to modernize and industrialize our country. It opens more jobs for Filipinos and would also improve the economy of our country. We would also be able to compete with technological advancements in other countries. This would give rise to scientific and economic development of the country.

            The establishment of education in the Philippines is the greatest contribution bought by the colonizers. It opened various opportunities for Filipinos to become educated. With the creation of public schools, events, and scholarships, access to education is free. And this produced professionals which in turn contributed greatly not just in science and technology, but also to other fields and ultimately the development of the Philippines. Also, the development of infrastructures such as schools, hospitals, roads, etc. are significant because it greatly improves the development of the country and economy.