Reviewer: Module 4 – Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES
A. Pre-Colonial Period
- Indigenous Filipinos already practiced science and technology in their daily lives.
- Activities such as farming, animal raising, pottery, weaving, herbal medicine, and the
construction of rice terraces reflected scientific knowledge.
- They used stars and heavenly bodies to tell time, predict seasons, and organize agricultural
work.
- Tools for planting, hunting, cooking, fishing, and warfare were crafted using local
materials.
- Trade with China, Japan, and Indonesia introduced new technologies and ideas.
B. Colonial Period
Spanish Period:
- Introduced formal education and Western scientific knowledge.
- Focused on religious and basic science education.
- The galleon trade brought in technology and cultural exchanges.
- However, superstitious beliefs and religious dominance slowed scientific progress.
American Period:
- Greatly advanced science and technology by creating the public education system.
- Established the University of the Philippines and public hospitals.
- Created the Bureau of Science to promote research and development.
- Improved engineering, transportation, and health systems.
C. Post-Colonial Period
- World War II destroyed many infrastructures, but post-war efforts rebuilt schools,
hospitals, and roads.
- New institutions emerged such as the Bureau of Science (later Institute of Science) and the
National Research Council of the Philippines.
- Science education improved slowly, with few students taking science-related courses.
PHILIPPINE INVENTIONS AND SCIENTISTS
Famous Inventions:
1. Electronic Jeepney (E-Jeepney) – eco-friendly, electric-powered jeepney.
2. Erythromycin – antibiotic discovered by Abelardo Aguilar.
3. Medical Incubator – created by Fe Del Mundo using native materials.
4. Mole Remover – invented by Rolando Dela Cruz using herbal formula.
Notable Filipino Scientists:
- Dr. Arturo Alcaraz – geothermal energy pioneer.
- Julian Banzon – developed alternative fuels from sugarcane and coconut.
- Pedro Escuro – developed high-yield rice varieties.
- Francisco Fronda – Father of Poultry Science.
- Felix Maramba – biogas and coconut oil generator.
- Luz Oliveros Belardo – studied medicinal plants and essential oils.
- Emerita De Guzman – tissue culture of macapuno, abaca, and banana.
- Fe Del Mundo – pediatrician and incubator inventor.
- Gregorio Zara – invented the videophone and alcohol-fueled airplane engine.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DURING DIFFERENT ADMINISTRATIONS
Ferdinand Marcos Era:
- Promoted science education and increased funding for research.
- Established agencies like PAGASA, IRRI, PHILCORN, NAST, and DOST’s precursor.
- Built the Philippine Science Community in Bicutan.
Fifth Republic Presidents:
Corazon Aquino (1986–1992):
- Created the DOST from NSTA and launched a Science and Technology Master Plan.
Fidel V. Ramos (1992–1998):
- Expanded science scholarships and enacted several laws (RA 8439, RA 7459, RA 8293).
- Supported gifted Filipino students in science.
Joseph Estrada (1998–2001):
- Signed Clean Air Act (RA 8749) and E-Commerce Act (RA 8792).
- Improved irrigation and health programs.
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2001–2010):
- Coined “Filipinnovation” to promote innovation.
- Passed Biofuels Act (RA 9367) and AFMech Law (RA 10601).
Benigno Aquino III (2010–2016):
- Declared new National Scientists in various fields.
Rodrigo Duterte (2016–2022):
- Supported R&D commercialization and launched Diwata-1 and Diwata-2 satellites.
- Prioritized agriculture and disaster preparedness.