BRIEF HISTORY OF PHILIPPINE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Examining the evolution of science and technology in the Philippines reveals
historical journey. This overview showcases pivotal moments, initiatives, and
laws, indicating the nation's commitment to the progress of science and technology.
Era
Pre-Colonial Era
Era
Pres. Manuel Quezon
Administration
Major Achievements
Use of mathematics
in pre-colonial
societies
Pres. José Laurel
Administration
Spanish Colonial Era
Establishment of the
University of Santo
Tomas. Other higher
education schools
followed.
A strong advocate
of science and
technology through
education and
research. He believed
it was the key to
national progress
Educational efforts
nurtured scientific
and technological
talents in the
Philippines. NRCP
stimulated varied
scientific research
NAPOCOR enhanced
the economy via
hydroelectric power.
American Colonial
Perio
Key Points
Mathematics used
in pre-colonial
societies (e.g.
Laguna Copperplate
Inscription). Spanish
colonization brought
scientific institutions
and formal education.
Along with Catholic
teachings, Western
concept of science
and math was
introduced in the
local schools; The
Galleon trade
indicates a practical
approach to scientific
advancements.
Bureau of
Government
Laboratories founded
in 1901. Bureau of
Science established
in 1905. National
Research Council
founded in 1933.
Pres. Emilio
Aguinaldo
Administration
Aguinaldo had a
strong interest
in science and
technology. He
believed that
technology could
perfect humans1.
Marked a systematic
and institutionalized
approach to scientific
research and
development laying
the groundwork for a
structured framework
that fosters research
initiatives and
collaborations.
One of the first
speeches ever
broadcast on
television was
delivered by Emilio
Aguinaldo. He
recognized the
potential of television
as a revolutionary
piece of technology.
Impact
A clear indication
that mathematics was
already established in
the local communities
even before Spain
arrived in the
archipelago
Introduced formal
education and
advanced scientific
institutions,
representing
a significant
advancement beyond
the earlier parochial
school system.
Development
of government
laboratories and
research councils
Key Points
He played a
significant role in
the progress of
the Philippines,
including in the
fields of science and
technology under
American tutelage
Prs. Sergio Osmeña
Sr. Administration
A fervent supporter
of research and
nnovation,
recognizing their
crucial role in
economic growth and
enhancing Filipinos'
quality of life.
His initiatives paved
the way for the
modernization of
these sectors and
contributed to the
overall development
of the country.
Aguinaldo was
a pioneer in
recognizing the
transformative power
of technology, a
vision that continues
o echo in today's
tech-driven society.
Pres. Manuel Roxas
Administration
Recognized the
importance of
communication
and transportation
infrastructure,
establishing a daily,
comfortable, fast,
and inexpensive
communication
service between
Manila and the Bicol
provinces
Connectivity and
communication
service improved
facilitating
economic and social
development.
Major Achievements
Enhanced Manila
Bicol connectivity
with efficient
communication
services and
stabilized the
financial market by
regulating securities
during the mining
boom of 1935-36.
Established the
Philippine Normal
School and the
University of the
Philippines College
of Law, promoted
scientific research
via the National
Research Council,
and advanced
technology by
initiating the National
Power Corporation
for nationwide
electrification.
Championed the
establishment
of research
institutions, fostered
scientist-industry
collaborations, and
promoted modern
technology use across
various sectors
including agriculture,
manufacturing, and
infrastructure.
Regulated the
issuance of, and
trading in, securities,
which was made
necessary by the
mining boom of 1935
and 1936
Impact
Bolstered
connectivity and
socio-economic
growth, while his
securities regulation
safeguarded the
financial market and
investors.
Era
Pres. Elpidio Quirino
Administration
Impact
Improved
connectivity,
stabilized the
financial market, and
protected investors
Prs. Ramon
Magsaysay
Administration
Key Points
Established the
Presidential Task
Force for Science and
Technology, leading
to the first Science
and Technology
Master Plan
Pushed for more
progress in science
and technology in the schoolhouses
country
Pres. Fidel Ramos
Administration
Pres. Carlos Garcia
Administration
Passed laws to
officially establish
the Philippine state's
interest in pursuing
advancements in the
fields of science and
technology
Advanced scientific
knowledge
modernized
various sectors,
and contributed
to the country's
development
Marked the
beginning of a more
structured approach
to science and
technology.
President
Joseph Estrada
Administration
Pres. Diosdado
Macapagal
Administration
Science and
Technology Agenda;
Proclamation No. 136
5. 19632
Major Achievements
He fostered research
institutions and
scientist-industry
collaborations;
Initiated hydroelectric
power harnessing at
Ambuklao Dam and
Maria Cristina Falls
Initiated the use
of prefabricated
promoted modern
agricultural methods,
and pioneered the
cable television
industry.
Approved Republic
Act (RA) No. 1606
An Act to Promote
Scientific, Engineering
and Technological
Research, Invention
and Development;
Established the
National Science
Development Board
Declared the period
from December 2 to
8, 1963, as Science
and Technology Week
Era
Pres. Corazon Aquino
Administration
President Goria
Pres. Ferdinand
Marcos Era
Passed laws
and initiatives
supporting science
education. Initiatives
to encourage
private colleges in
science programs
Establishment of
various research
institutions and
councils
Prioritization
of science and
technology
This proclamation
gave impetus to
the role of science
in the economic
development of the
country
Created a foundation
for more scientific
growth
Key Points
Focus on science
and technology
in the Medium-
Term Philippine
Development Plan.
Budget increases
for research
and technology
Abolishment of the
Philippine Inventors
Commission
Creation of Science
and Technology
Master Plan (STMP).
Passage of significant
laws supporting the
industry.
Passage of the
Philippine Clean
Air Act of 1999
and the Electronic
Commerce Act of
2000. Emphasis on
affordable irrigation
technologies and the
modernization of
the Philippine Armed
Forces
Referred to as
Arroyo Administration |the "golden age"
for science and
technology.
Major Achievements
Establishment
of the Philippine
Science High
School campuses
Transition from the
National Science and
Technology Authority
to the Department
of Science and
Technology in 1986.
Development of
a comprehensive
plan for science and
technology
Impact
Expansion of science
education and
research capabilities,
Increased budget
for research and
technology
Introduction of
environmental and
digital legislation
showcasing a
response to
environmental
concerns and
the growing
importance of digital
technologies.
Focus on science,
technology, and
mathematics in
the Philippine
Science High
School curriculum:
Introduction of
"Filipinnovation"
Advancements
in science and
technology
highlighted by
having a strategic
roadmap for scientific
development
Reflects a
commitment to
practical applications
of science for societa
well-being.
The focus on
science, technology.
and mathematics
underscores a
commitment to
nurturing the next
generation of
scientific leaders
and professionals.
"Filipinnovation"
aimed to make
the Philippines an
innovation hub in
Asia
Major Achievements
Signed into law a bill
aimed at expanding
the coverage of
the Science and
Technology (S&T)
Scholarship Program
and building a pool
of highly qualified
science and math
teachers in the
country.
Reassured
commitment to the
science, technology
and innovation
sector. The budget
of the Department
of Science and
Technology (DOST)
quadrupled in the last
seven years.
Full commitment of
his administration
to all the research
and development
(R&D) programs
and services of
the Department
of Science and
Technology (DOST).
The information on Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration is based on
ongoing initiatives as his administration is still in progress as of year 2023.
FAMOUS FILIPINO SCIENTISTS
Who championed the nutritional benefits of sweet potato?
Francisco Santos (1892-1983). He was a specialist in human nutrition and
agricultural chemistry, is known for his research on Filipino food. He advocated
for a healthy diet and emphasized food supply and security. Santos studied regional
food customis, devised a plan to enhance Filipino diets, and educated Filipinos about
the importance, of a proper diet. His research covered the nutritional qualities of
Filipino foods, traditional Philippine nutrition problems, dietary habits of laborer
communities, and potential effects of biased diets. He highlighted the nutritional
benefits of sweet potatoes and their anti-beri-beri content.
Era
Pres. Benigno Aquino
II Administration
Impact
Expansion of science
education and
research capabilities;
Increased budget
for research and
technology
Pres, Rodrigo Duterte
Administration
Key Points
Focus on improving
the country's
science, technology,
engineering, and
mathematics (STEM)
education to keep
up with neighboring
countries, as well
as technological
advancements.
Focus on
renewable energy,
industrialization
faster and cheaper
internet, increased
food production,
and climate change
adaptation.
Development of
a comprehensive
plan for science and
technology
Pres. Ferdinand
Marcos Jr.
Administration
Focus on improving
the country's
science, technology,
engineering, and
mathematics (STEM)
education to keep
up with neighboring
countries, as well
as technological
advancements
Expansion of science
education and
research capabilities;
Increased budget
for research and
technalogy
Who is the leading authority in Philippine flora?
Eduardo Quisumbing (1895-1986). He made significant contributions to the
study of medicinal herbs in the Philippines. He authored numerous academis
papers and books, establishing the foundation for the National Integrated
Research Program. His work in ethnobotany and plant taxonomy earned him
many awards in tropical medicine. His book, Medicinal Plants in the Philippines,
is a cornerstone for research on medicinal plants in the country. He also played a
key role in restoring the Herbarium after the war.
Who is considered "Father of Phycology in Philippines"?
Gregorio T. Velasquez (1901-1989). Phycology is the branch of botany that
is concerned with the scientific study of seaweeds and other algae. His research
focused on the chemistry of these algae, their oxygen production, and the study of
diatoms and other algal species. He pioneered a method for distinguishing these
organisms and conducted comprehensive research on indigenous Myxophyceae,
or blue-green algae. Starting as a laboratory assistant in the University of the
Philippines, he rose to the position of Professor of Botany and was honored with
the title of Emeritus Professor upon his retirement.
Who is considered "Father of Videoconferencing"?
Gregorio Y. Zara (March 8, 1902-October 15, 1978). A Filipino scientist, he is
best known as the inventor of the videophone, the first two-way electronic video
communicator, in 19551. He also invented other devices in aeronautics, solar
energy, and propulsion. He earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering
at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a master's in aeronautical engineering
at the University of Michigan, and a doctorate in physics at Sorbonne University
in Paris. He was awarded the National Scientist Award by President Ferdinand E.
Marcos. He is known as the father of vidcoconferencing2 for having invented the
first two-way videophone.
Who is considered "Father of Modern Philippine Ophthalmology"?
Geminiano de Ocampo (1907-1987). He pioneered the diagnosis and treatment
of eye conditions in the Philippines. He established the De Ocampo Eye Hospital
in 1952, the first of its kind in the country, and developed a corneal dissector
improve corneal transplant surgery. He also founded the Philippine Eye Bant
1950 and introduced corneal transplantation in the Philippines.
Who is the trailblazer in alternative energy?
lulian Banzon (1908-1988). He significantly contributed to alternative fuels
nd ethyl esters. He conducted pioncering research on ethyl esters as a sustainable
energy source and developed them from readily available organic materials like
ugarcane and coconuts. His work had a substantial impact on the food, chemical
pods, and biofuel industries. He held key positions at the National Research
Council of the Philippines and the Philippine Atomic Research Center.
Who is the First Asian President of the Medical Woman's
nternational Association?
Fe del Mundo (1911-2011). She is the first Filipino woman recognized as a
national scientist and the first Asian President of the Medical Woman's International
Association, revolutionized the Philippines' healthcare system. She furthered her
tudies in Boston after earning her medical degree in Manila. Known for her
innovative research on infectious diseases, particularly dengue fever, she authored
the foundational medical book, Textbook of Pediatrics. In public health, she
advocated for community connections with hospitals and supported population
control and family planning. She also created a bamboo incubator for remote
areas without electricity.
Who pushed for mental health at a time when
it was not favorably viewed?
Alfredo Lagmay (1919-2005). He made significant contributions to behavioral
studies and relaxation techniques. His research on behavior modification and
mental illness treatment was groundbreaking, particularly during a time when
mental health was not favorably viewed. He switched from medicine to philosophy
after World War II and later earned his master's degree and doctorate from Harvard
University. He served as an assistant professor of psychology at the University
of the Philippines and later became the Chair of the Psychology Department.
In 1988, he received the National Scientist Award for his contributions to the
scientific community in the Philippines. He also founded the UP Department of
Psychology and the Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP), and was a
founding member of the National Academy of Science and Technology.
Who is considered "Father of Philippine Plant Breeding"?
Dioscoro L. Umali (1917-1992). His research focused on essential Filipino
i miples like corn and rice. He specialized in breeding various crops and his
work laid the foundation for advancements in social forestry, rain-fed and upland
agriculture, environmental protection, and rural poverty alleviation. Under hi-
leadership, the UP College of Agriculture became a leading Asian institution
His contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous awards and
honorary doctorates.
Whose lifework focused on understanding and preventing
diseases caused by genetic changes?
Clara Lim-Sylianco (1925-2013). She was a pioneering scientist in molecular
nutrition, organic chemistry, genetic toxicology, and biochemistry. Her researel
focused on mutagens and antimutagens, She served at the National Institute of
Science and Technology, studying the impact of toxins on cells. Her contributions
earned her the title of National Scientist, and her textbooks are still in use. Her
research expanded understanding in areas like environmental mutagens and the
mutagenicity of medicinal herbs in the Philippines. She authored numerous
scholarly articles, books, and monographs. In 1958, she was elected a Fellow of the
Royal Society, and in 1977, she received the Gregorio Y. Zara Award, She was also
recognized as a National Scientist of the Philippines (Clara Lim-Sylianco, 2022).
Whose work pioneered global biological insect control techniques?
Clare R. Baltazar (1927-Present). She authored a comprehensive and reliable
book on insects, which continues to be a valuable resource for entomologists
worldwide. Her pioneering work laid the groundwork for the development
of biological insect control techniques that are now utilized globally. She also
made significant strides in the discovery of Hymenoptera insect species in the
Philippines.
Who is considered "Father of Kappaphycus Farming"?
Gavino Trono (1931-Present). His groundbreaking research on seaweed
diversity and expertise on Kappaphycus (locally known as guso) has greatly
enhanced understanding of the importance of this plant group in maritime
environments across Asia. Trono's contributions have had a profound impact on
Filipino society and have earned, him the prestigious National Scientist Award.
Who revolutionized the Philippine rice industry?
Benito Vergara (1934-2015). A Filipino plant scientist and rice farme
he revolutionized the Philippines' rice industry with his seminal work
Garmer's Primer on Growing Rice. This book provided farmers with effective
wechniques for cultivating rice. Vergara compiled a comprehensive list of rice
warieties and included detailed instructions for their cultivation. His significant
contributions to agriculture and plant studies earned him the prestigious title of
'National Scientist".
Who is a pioneer of Philippine giant clam breeding?
Edgardo Dizon Gomez (1938-2019). A distinguished marine biologist, he
devoted his life to the preservation of the Philippines' coral reefs and marine
resources, leading the way in coral replanting initiatives. He also played a crucial
role in the creation of the Philippines' baseline map and provided valuable
information to the Philippine government during negotiations over territorial
disputes in the Spratly Islands. Dr. Gomez's significant contributions to the
study and conservation of invertebrate biology and ecology were recognized at
a ceremony held in the Rizal Hall of Malacañan Palace on August 12, 2014. Dr.
Gomez's is one of only 41 National Scientists of the Philippines.
Who discovered the pharmacological properties of tanglad?
Luz Oliveros-Belardo (1906-1999). She is a distinguished pharmaceutical
chemist, made significant strides in the field of natural product chemistry. She
successfully extracted over 30 essential oils from various plants and conducted
in-depth studies on their properties. Her pioneering work not only established
the discipline of natural product chemistry but also opened avenues for further
research into the potential medicinal benefits of these oils.
THE YOUNG BLOODS
Migs Canilao, Anthropologist and Archacologist: An anthropologist and
archacologist, he uses satellite imagery to explore historic towns and gold trading
routes in Northwestern Luzon. His work centers on the Luzon gold trade and
its interconnected settlements. He advocates for the inclusion of postcolonial and
indigenous perspectives in development planning, crucial for preserving ancient
sites and promoting Filipino identity. Canilao calls for collaboration among
academia, communities, and local governments to aid the National Museum in
archaeological conservation.
Andreia Carrillo, Astrophysicist: An astrophysicist and post-doctoral research
ociate at Durham University her research delves into the mysteries of a dwatf
y located 15 million light years away, studying its stars and their impact on
the surrounding environment. Carrillo believes that astrophysics plays a pivotal
role in understanding the cosmos and filling the gaps in the narrative of human
origins. She marvels at the fact that we are still part of the Big Bang that occurred
13.7 billion years ago. Carrillo is captivated by the vastness of the universe and
acknowledges the limitations of our current technology in comprehendine
its enormity.
Julius Sempio, Geoinformatics and Remote Sensing: An expert in
geoinformatics and remote sensing, he created a database for photos from the
Diwata-1 and Diwata-2 microsatellites launched by the Philippines. This system
aims to make satellite data accessible for mapping, environmental monitoring, and
land use changes. Sempio, who discovered his passion for geodetic engineering.
has worked on watershed modeling and evaluated drought susceptibility in rural
communities using satellite images. He supports government initiatives like
Project NOAH and the DREAM Program, and advocates for the expansion
of the Balik Scientist program to educate public school students. He believes
in promoting scientific and critical thinking from an early age to counter the
perception of scientists as an inaccessible cultural elite.
Sarah Oliva, Geophysicist: As a geophysicist at Tulane University, she is
conducting research on rifting and hazard assessment in East Africa. Her innovative
use of seismic waves enhances understanding of rifting and hazard assessments.
She advocates for foundational scientific research, quality science education, and
student engagement with scientists. As an international student, she acknowledges
the importance of travel and the global nature of scientific ideas.
Kamela Ng, Molecular Epidemiologist: She is working to detect and halt
the spread of drug-resistant tuberculosis in the Philippines through a nationwide
surveillance tool. This technology, aimed at early detection and treatment, will
be tested in three regions. Ng advocates for medical advancements and cross-
disciplinary collaborations to improve Filipinos' quality of life and foster a
supportive environment for scientists.
Irene Crisologo, Radar Meteorologist: A radar meteorologist based in
Germany, she is pioneering open-source methods for weather radar data
processing. She supports the Balik Scientist Program, which encourages scientists
to return to their home country, and advocates for more scientific roles outid
universities. Crisologo views science as a tool for nation-building and exp
concern about the lack of industrial opportunities for scientists who carne
Ph.Ds. abroad.
Name:
Instructor:
Score:
Date
ASSESSMENT 33
Multiple Choice. Please read each question carefully and select the best answer
from the options provided. Encircle the letter that represents your answer. You
may only choose one answer for each question (5 points).
1. Why did Francisco Santos emphasize the importance of sweet potatoes in
the Filipino diet?
A. They are easy to grow.
B. They have anti-beri-beri
content.
5. Why is Clara Lim-Sylianco recognized for her contributions to science?
A. She was a renowned physicist.
B. She studied and combated genetically-caused diseases.
C. She discovered a new element.
D. She was a celebrated astronaut.
ASSESSMENT 34
Essay. Discuss one significance of science and technology in advancing national
development and in improving the quality of life for Filipinos (20 points).
A. He was a famous scientist.
B. He invented the
videophone.
4. Why is Fe del Mundo recognized as a significant figure in the medical field?
A. She was a renowned doctor.
B. She was the first Asian President of the Medical Woman's International
Association.
C. She was a pioneer in the medical field.
D. She was a celebrated medical practitioner.
C. They are a traditional
Filipino food.
D. They are inexpensive.
2. Why is Andreia Carrillo's research significant in the field of astrophysics?
A. She studies the impact of stars in a distant dwarf galaxy.
B. She is developing a new telescope.
C. She is researching the effects of black holes.
D. She is exploring the possibility of life on Mars.
3. Why is Gregorio Y. Zara considered the "Father of Videoconferencing"?
C. He was a famous professor.
D. He was a war hero.
