SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, and SOCIETY
CHAPTER 3: Science, Technology, and Nation-building
Prepared by: Danilla May R. Gallardo & Jackesa H. Robles
The development of Science and Technology in the Philippines has already come a
long way. Many significant inventions and discoveries have been accomplished by or
attributed to Filipinos. This chapter tackles the development of Science and Technology
affect the development as a nation.
PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD
Scientific and Technological development in the Philippines began in the pre-colonial
period, even before the Spaniards came to the Philippine islands.
Agriculture and Farming Techniques
The Philippine Rice Terraces, indigenous people harnessing the power of
nature by employing sophisticated techniques of soil management, water
irrigation, and terracing to create sustainable agricultural system in the
mountainous terrain.
Kaingin Agriculture (slash-and-burn), an early understanding of plant
ecology and soil fertility by burning vegetation, farmers could release
nutrients into the soil, promoting short-term crop growth.
Traditional Medicine
The use of herbal concoctions, poultices, and other natural treatments
demonstrates a sophisticated understanding to human body.
Metallurgy and Toolmaking
The Philippine Iron Age (around 500 BCE to 1000 CE) marks a period where
iron tools and weapons became more prevalent.
Agricultural Tools plows, sickles
Weapons Bolo, kampilan, kris (cross sword), spears
Household Tools Knives, axes,
Spiritual Significance Gold necklace, earrings, bracelets
Pre-colonial Filipinos possessed advance metalworking skills, evident in the
intricate gold artefacts found throughout the archipelago.
One notable example is the Surigao Treasure, discovered in 1981, which
includes a variety of gold pieces, including a weighing scale pan, a bowl, and a
neck from a jar.
Maritime Technology
Balangay boats (butuan boats) were sophisticated seafaring vessels
showcasing advanced ship building technology. It is also one of the oldest
known watercrafts in Southeast Asia, dating back to 320 AD.
Outrigger Canoes, (Banca/Bangka) smaller and lighter than Balangay boats,
were highly adaptable vessels to navigate shallow waters and navigate
through mangrove forests.
Weaving and Textile Technology
Indigenous people showcase intricate techniques passed down through
generations blending art and craftsmanship with scientific principles like
symmetry and fiber durability,
Using natural fibers like abaca and piña, they employ advanced dyeing
methods derived from organic sources, demonstrating knowledge of
chemistry and botany,
Astronomy and Timekeeping
Indigenous communities utilized Astronomy for agricultural cycles,
navigation, and spiritual practices, observing celestial bodies like sun, moon,
and stars to determine planting seasons and maritime roots.
The “Balatik” and Star Patterns Tagalogs and Visayans developed star
constellations to track seasonal changes helping them to predict natural
events, weather patterns, and even time festivals.
Construction and Engineering
Bahay Kubo was built from locally sourced materials like bamboo and nipa,
the structure is elevated to withstand flood, has ventilation that promotes
airflow to combat tropical heat, and is resistant to earthquakes.
Food Preservation Techniques
Salting and Drying by applying salt, they understood that it drew moisture
out of food, creating an environment where bacteria could not thrive,
demonstrating early knowledge of microbial science.
Fermentation Food like buro (fermented rice and fish) and tapuy (rice wine)
were made through a process in which beneficial bacteria convert sugars
into acids, alcohol, or gases, effectively preserving the food while enhancing
its flavour. This showcases an early biotechnological practices rooted in
empirical observation and experimentation.
Smoking and Curing Filipinos understood that smoke contained
antimicrobial properties that prevented spoilage, reflecting their advanced
knowledge of chemistry and food science.
Pottery and Ceramics
The pottery and ceramics produced, such as banga (water jars), palayok
(cooking pots), and burnay (storage jars), were not only functional but also
highly adapted to the daily needs of people. These items were designed to be
heat-resistant for cooking, water-tight for storage, and durable for transport,
illustrating practical knowledge of physics and engineering.
Trade and Commerce
Barter System and Economic Exchange trading goods like gold, pearls,
pottery, and textiles. Filipinos had an advanced understanding of resource
management and value system, determining the worth of commodities based
on availability, demand, and utility. This indicates an early grasp of
economics and market dynamics, using practical science.
Source: OpenAI. (Aug. 20, 2024). Ver.1.2024.226: Key S&T Events: “Pre-Colonial Period of Science and Technology in the
Philippines” Retrieved from [Link]
COLONIAL PERIOD
Spanish Colonial Period (1565-1898)
Introduction of Western Medicine
Establishment of Scientific Institution
Introduction of New Crops and Agricultural Methods
Philippine Cartography and Geography
Botanical Studies
Introduction of Modern Architecture and Engineering
Astronomy and Timekeeping
Japanese Colonial Period (1942- 1945)
Following the Japanese invasion during World War II, the Japanese Military
Administration imposed strict control and exploited the Philippines’ resources,
leading to widespread suffering and resistance. The Japanese Colonial Period
primarily focused on military extraction needs. While some infrastructure projects
were undertaken, they often served Japanese military’s interest rather than
promoting scientific development.
American Colonial Period (1898-1946)
Establishment of Public Education System
Philippine Normal School (1901) now the Philippine Normal University was
established to train teachers which emphasized science and technology in
the curriculum.
University of the Philippines (1908) were created to foster higher education
in scientific and technical subjects, such as agriculture, engineering, and
medicine to develop practical skills and improve the country’s economy.
American government sent over 500 teachers, known as “Thomasites” to
teach in the Philippines, and they were instrumental in promoting science
and technical education.
Introduction of Modern Public Health and Sanitation
The American colonial government invested in improving public health. They
introduced modern sanitation system, developed public health measures,
and worked to control diseases like cholera, malaria, and tuberculosis.
The Philippine General Hospital (1907) was established as part of improving
public health, providing modern medical care and serving as a centre for
medical education and research.
Infrastructure Development
The American period saw a significant advancements in infrastructure,
particularly in transportation and communication. They introduced
railroads, roads, bridges, and telegraph system.
Maria Cristina Hydroelectric Plant (in Lanao) and other energy projects were
also initiated during this period to address the growing need for electricity.
Agricultural Development and Research
Philippine Agricultural College now (UP-Los Baños) was established 1909 to
focus on agricultural education and research. It played a significant role in
improving crop yields and farming techniques, particularly in rice
production.
The Bureau of Plant Industry applied American agricultural science and
technology to study local crops and introduce new varieties, significantly
advancing agricultural productivity.
The Bureau of Animal Industry was introduced to modern veterinary
practices, disease control, and livestock management techniques reflected to
application of scientific principles to enhance the livestock industry,
contributing to food supply and rural development.
Mining and Natural Resources
The Americans introduced modern scientific methods for surveying, drilling,
and ore extraction, which replaced older, labor-intensive practices.
Technologies like dynamite for blasting, mechanical drills, and advanced
metallurgy improved mining efficiency and safety.
The Philippine Mining Act of 1905 aimed to manage the natural resources
through policies based on scientific principles, promoting responsible
extraction of minerals while also considering environmental conservation.
Advancement of Communication and Technology
Telegraph and Telephone System were advancements based on the cutting-
edge electrical engineering and telecommunications science, enabling faster
communication between islands, and the rest of the world, facilitating
administrative control, commerce, and personal connections.
Radio Technology and Broadcast Media In 1924, radio stations began
operating, making mass communication more accessible to the public.
Postal System was also modernized by the American implementing an
organized network for mail delivery and expanding to remote areas.
Medical Research and Tropical Diseases
American colonial government prioritized study and treatment of tropical
diseases like cholera, malaria, smallpox, and leprosy, which were widespread
in the Philippines.
The Bureau of Science 1901 was created to centralize scientific research in
the Philippines. It became the leading institution for research in fields such as
biology, agriculture, chemistry, and public health.
The Culion Leper Colony 1906 was part of a broader strategy to contain
infectious diseases through isolation and quarantine, this contributed to
global understanding and management of leprosy, while also showing the
intersection of science, medicine, and colonial policy in public health.
Development of Scientific Institutions
The National Research Council of the Philippines 1933 was established to
promote scientific research. The NRCP supported research in various fields,
including natural sciences, social sciences, and engineering.
Bureau of Science was made as a bridge for American scientists to
introduced modern scientific methods, laboratory research, and advanced
technology, promoting scientific study of tropical diseases, natural resources,
and environmental conditions in the Philippines.
Source: ”History of Philippine Technology: Colonial Period” prompt. ChatGPT, 20 Aug 24. Ver.1.2024.226, OpenAI, 20 Sept 24,
[Link]/chat
POST COLONIAL ERA began in 1946
Establishment of the National Science Development Board (NSDB) 1958
Development of the Rice Research Institute 1960
Space and Atmospheric Research
Establishment of the Science Education Institute
Invention of Erythromycin in Ilo-ilo 1949
Revival of Coconut Research 1970s
Balik Scientist Program 1975
Development of Information Technology and Electronic Sector
1990s
Launch of Philippine Satellites
Rise of Biotechnology
Innovation in Renewable Energy