Reviewer: Development of Science and Technology in the Philippines
I. Pre-Colonial Period
Characteristics
Indigenous knowledge was practical and based on needs for survival.
People developed skills in farming, fishing, hunting, weaving, pottery,
and metallurgy.
Early Filipinos used simple tools such as bolos, plows, and fishing gear.
Knowledge of herbal medicine (e.g., leaves, roots, barks) was passed orally.
Babaylans acted as healers, herbalists, and spiritual leaders.
Science & Tech Practices
Agriculture: kaingin system, irrigation methods.
Navigation: balangay boats, star navigation, coastal mapping.
Construction: Nipa huts designed for hot, humid climate and earthquakes.
Weaving & pottery: used for storage, rituals, and trade.
II. Spanish Period (1521–1898)
Major Contributions
Establishment of formal education and the introduction of universities
(e.g., UST—one of Asia’s oldest).
Construction of roads, bridges, churches, and stone infrastructures.
Introduction of Western medicine and hospitals.
Science & Technology Developments
Implementation of the Galleon Trade, boosting shipbuilding and navigation.
Introduction of crops like corn, tomatoes, and cacao.
Development of printing press and books.
Creation of observatories (e.g., Manila Observatory for weather
forecasting).
III. American Period (1898–1946)
Key Highlights
Establishment of a public school system, promoting literacy and scientific
thinking.
Opening of UP and other research institutions.
Introduction of modern transportation, such as automobiles and trains.
Science & Tech Improvements
Better health systems, vaccination programs, and sanitary engineering.
Expansion of agricultural research (e.g., crop science, fisheries).
Development of infrastructure, power plants, and communication systems.
IV. Post-Colonial/Contemporary Philippines
Institutions and Agencies
DOST – leads S&T programs and innovation.
PAGASA – weather forecasting and climatology.
PHIVOLCS – volcano and earthquake monitoring.
DOH – public health research.
DepEd & CHED – education reforms.
Modern Advancements
Use of satellite technology (Diwata-1, Diwata-2).
Growth in IT, BPO, and telecommunications.
Renewable energy projects (solar, hydro, geothermal).
Advances in biotechnology and agriculture (drought-resistant crops).
Research in disaster-resilient infrastructure.
V. Challenges in Philippine S&T
Limited government funding for research.
Brain drain due to better opportunities abroad.
Slow adoption of modern technology in rural areas.