Lesson 3.

0 and technology, no nation could grow and all those nations

that were labeled as low in growth have proven where they
3.1 The Role of S&T in Nation Building – with the stand today and all that happened because of science and
significant variables qualifying S&T in nation building technology.

Importance of S&T on Personal Level

The advent of science and technology brought progress not
only in our country but in the entire world. Its development
Here are What Science and Technology do for us:
determines to a large extent the socio-economic progress 1. It helps us save time and money. Various
of a country. It is a well-known fact that it is directly contributions of science and technology have helped
associated with modernity and is an essential tool for rapid us save time and money. While science has given us the
development and progress of a country: knowledge why baked or steam-cooked food is better
than the fried or oily food, technology has gifted us with
microwave and steam-cookers that help us bake and
Importance of S&T in National Development
steam cook our food. Various objects like computers,
• Science and technology. A field of endeavor upon which a modes of transport, washing machines help us save
two-way interaction operates between the two. time and energy
• Science is the intellectual and practical activity 2. Education. Science and technology have made
encompassing the systematic study of the structure and significant contribution in the education field as well.
Technology has made education itself easier. It has
behavior of the physical and natural world through
provided us options like smart classes, multimedia
observation and experiment (Oxford Advanced Learners'
devices, e-libraries, e-books, etc.
Dictionary, 11 Edition) 3. Internet. Information technology, including internet, is
• Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for an excellent gift of technology. With the help of internet,
practical purposes (Oxford) we do not get only immense knowledge on science and
other subjects, but we also get to stay connected with
our friends and family.
National development at any phase is always linked with
4. Provides us devices for comfortable sleeping, quick
technology and technology happens when there is
cooking, and fast commute. With the help of objects
advancement in science. Modernization in every aspect of
like AC microwave and vehicles, science and
life is the greatest example of the implementation of
technology have made our sleeping, cooking, and
science and technology in every nation.
commuting process easier and faster.
5. It helps us live better life. While science has made
With introduction of modern gadgets in every walk of life,
significant contributions in health by providing
life has become simple, and this is possible only because
treatment for various chronic diseases, technology has
of implementing science and technology together. Without
benefited us in receiving those treatments through
having modem equipment in all sectors, be it in medicine,
various ways and devices like X-ray, scan machines,
infrastructure, aviation electricity, information technology
operation devices, pacemaker, and many more. We are
or any other field, the advancement, and benefits that we
also blessed with numerous exercising equipment,
face today would not have been possible. The role that
various health apps, online doctor and other things that
science and technology has played in improving the life of
help us maintain good health and life.
people across the globe is vivid and has made life a lot
easier and a lot better with the advancement in medicine,
Impact of Technology on Society
remarkable development in education, communication,
agriculture, business, and industry.
Humans need to use energy to process products in
factories, to run cars, to light homes and also run
A nation's development and prosperity is judged to a large
technological machines like computers. But the only way
extent by the status of science and technology of that
we can do this without affecting the environment and
nation. Science and technology are key drivers to
society is by shifting from exhaustible energy sources to
development because technological and scientific
renewable and inexhaustible energy sources like solar/wind
revolutions underpin economic advances, improvement in
energy
health systems, education, and infrastructure.
Technology has contributed much to various aspects of life
Today, countries are classified as developed and
and the following are some of its examples:
developing countries. The major categorization is based on
the economy and the application of science and
technology. Countries which have a strong base in science • Technology has improved transportation.
and technology are the ones that developed faster. A few Transportation is one of the basic areas of
examples are countries like Japan, Russia, Brazil, China, technological activity. Both society and businesses
have benefited from the new transportation methods.
and many more. It is estimated by the World Bank that
seven of the ten largest economies of the world by 2020 Transportation provides mobility for people and goods.
would be in Asia: China, Japan, India, Thailand, South Transportation, like other technologies, can be viewed
Korea, and Taiwan. A few decades ago, these countries as a system. It is a series of parts that are interrelated.
were known to have poor policies, low discipline, and no These parts all work together to meet a certain goal.
advancement. But with the introduction and proper Technology has made possible all types of
Implementation of science and technology in an effective transportation, and these Include: (1) road transport
used by automobiles; (2) air transport which is used by
manner, they made great advancements across the globe.
airplanes: (3) water transportation which is used by
Science and technology hold the key to the progress and ships and speedboats; and (4) space transportation
development of any nation. Technology plays a used to go to the moon. Technologies like automobiles,
buses and trucks have improved the way humans move
fundamental role in wealth creation, improvement in the
quality of life and real economic growth and transformation and how they transport their goods from one place to
in any society. another.
• Technology has improved communication.
A nation who is not able to prosper in these aspects would Communication is used for a number of purposes. Both
never be able to sustain its life and may have to depend on society and organizations depend on communication
other nations. Without proper implementation of science to transfer information. People use technology to
 communicate with each other. Electronic media like the interaction of insights and applications arising when
radios, televisions, internet, and social media have these technologies converge.
improved the way we exchange ideas which can
develop our societies. In many countries, radios and • Innovation is the primary driver of technological
televisions are used to voice concerns of society. They growth and drives higher living standards.
organize live forums where the community can
contribute through mobile phones or text service To promote technological advances, developing countries
systems like tweeter. Communication technologies should invest in quality education for youth, continuous
like televisions, radio and internet are used to skills training for workers and managers, and should ensure
persuade, entertain and inform the people about the that knowledge is shared as widely as possible across
various program the government. Small businesses society.
have also used the internet and mobile communication
technology to grow and improve their business. The state of science and technology determines the socio-
• The World Wide Web has proved to be an enormous economic progress of a country. It is a well-known fact that
information base from which information can be national progress is highly correlated to the capacity of a
retrieved by means of search engines. Information from country to produce local industrial goods for domestic
all around the world is housed on the web. With the needs and that industrialization is very much dependent on
development of web technology, the information can the application of science and technology
be organized in an organized manner and relevant
information can be retrieved on supplying search 3.2a The Philippine Government S&T Agenda
strings to Web search engines. Digitization of
information has been a major breakthrough in the world The Philippine government science and technology
of information technology. agenda is a list of things it wants to do. Thus, it introduced
• Technology has improved education and the and implemented several programs, projects, and policies
learning process. Education is the backbone of every to boost the area of science and technology. The main
economy. People need well and organized educational government agency tasked to do these is the Department
infrastructures so that they can learn how to interpret of Science and Technology, better known for its acronym,
information. Many schools have integrated educational DOST.
technologies in their schools with the aim of improving
the way students learn. Technologies like smart Government S&T Policies
whiteboards, computers, mobile phones, iPads,
projectors, and internet are being used in classrooms According to Point Park University (2017), a public policy
to boost students’ morale to learn. describes the actions of the government. Usually created in
response to issues brought before decision makers, these
The Role of S&T in Nation Building policies come in the form of laws and regulations. They may
be created by any governing body, from the country’s
It is a well-established fact that science and technology president down to city council members. On the other
impact all aspects of our lives as well as the planet we live hand, Houghton (2020) simply defined public policy as
on. The changes induced by science and technology have actions taken by government — its decisions that are
for the most part benefited mankind although there is many intended to solve problems and improve the quality of life
a case where science and technology-based innovations for its citizens.
have been used for the detriment of mankind pursued for
either wealth and power or both. It is the responsibility of all What is a policy making process?
concerned to ensure that science and technology is used Houghton (2020) elucidated on it by pointing out that a
widely to benefit mankind (Ratnasiri, 2006). policy established and carried out by the government goes
through several stages from inception to conclusion. These
Science and technology has been one of the main driving are agenda building, formulation, adoption,
forces of the economic growth of nations. Most developed implementation, evaluation, and termination that fully
countries have generated new technologies with potential comprise the policy making process.
to result in dynamic economic performance. This, however,
has not been the case with most of the developing countries 1. Agenda building. Before a policy can be created, a
and their developmental plans have not given emphasis problem must exist that is called to the attention of the
and importance to science and technology and in particular government such as illegal immigration, a high level of
to research in the science and technology aspects. crimes, and terrorism. As such, new legislation is
Countries like India, South Korea, and Taiwan in the region needed to address these problems.
have achieved much through science and technology and 2. Formulation and adoption. Policy formulation means
stand out as having demonstrated the absolute importance coming up with an approach to solving a problem.
of science and technology for economic growth. These Congress, the executive branch, the courts, and
countries are example for the developing countries. The interest groups may be involved. A bill to solve a
impact of technology on society without doubt is going to be problem goes before the Congress or a regulatory
even more marked in the future. agency drafts proposed rules. The process continues
with adoption. A policy is said to be adopted when
The Role of Science and Technology in the Developing Congress passes legislation, the regulations become
World in the 21" Century final, or the Supreme Court renders a decision in a
case.
According to Lee Roy Chetty (2012), science and 3. Implementation. The implementation or carrying out
technology are key drivers to development, because of a policy is most often accomplished by institutions
scientific and technological revolutions underpin other than those that formulated and adopted it. A
economic advances, improvements in health systems, statute decreed by Congress usually provides just a
education, and infrastructure. The technological broad outline of a policy. For example, Congress may
revolutions of the 21" century are emerging from entirely mandate improved water quality standards, but the
new sectors, based on micro-processors, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides the
telecommunications, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. details on those standards and the procedures for
Products are transforming business practices across the measuring compliance through regulations.
economy, as well as the lives of all who have access to their Successful implementation depends on the complexity
effects. The most remarkable breakthroughs will come from
 of the policy, coordination between those putting the scientific information, provide advice on issues of national
policy into effect, and compliance. interest, and promote scientific culture to all sectors of
4. Evaluation and termination. Evaluation means Philippine society.
determining how well a policy is working, and it is not
an easy task. People inside and outside of government As mandated by the Department of Science and
typically use cost-benefit analysis to try to find the Technology, a government agency in which NRCP is under
answer. History has shown that once implemented, it, the NRCP recommended clustering these policies into
policies are difficult to terminate. When they are four, namely:
terminated, it is usually because the policy became
obsolete, clearly did not work, or lost its support among 1. Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, International
the interest groups and elected officials that placed it Policies and Governance … in pursuit of …
on the agenda in the first place. 1.1 integrating ASEAN awareness in basic education
without adding to curriculum,
Science and technology policy is one of the public 1.2 emphasizing teaching in the mother tongue,
policies that promotes appropriate funding to advance 1.3 developing school infrastructure and providing for ICT
scientific and technological research and education, broadband,
studies the impact of science and technology upon its 1.4 local food security,
citizenry, and prescribes regulation, if necessary (Science 1.5 harnessing indigenous knowledge systems and
Tracer Bullets Online, 2020). Those involved in a nation’s practices;
science and technology policy analyze and often provide
indepth studies to determine the plans, programs and 2. Physics, Engineering and Industrial Research, Earth and
policies of the government and their effects on domestic Space Sciences, and Mathematics … with goals of …
and international affairs. Since many political issues have a 2.1 emphasizing degrees, licenses, and employment
scientific component, most developed countries have opportunities,
specific agencies, ministries, or offices that deal with 2.2 outright grants for peer monitoring,
science and technology policy. 2.3 review of RA 9184, and
2.4 harnessing science and technology as independent
mover of development;

3. Medical, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences … that

intends to attain the following objectives …
3.1 ensuring compliance of drug manufacturing firms with
ASEAN harmonized standards by full implementation of the
Food and Drugs Administration,
3.2 creating an educational council dedicated to
standardization of pharmaceutical services and cares,
As shown in the diagram, the development of policies in 3.3 empowering food and drugs agencies to conduct
science and technology is shaped or influenced by several evidence-based research as pool of information,
variables. These include policies that need to be aligned to 3.4 allocating two percent of GDP to research, and
national goals; policies in consideration of the country’s 3.5 legislating a law supporting human genome project;
international commitments and those based on legal
frameworks; and the government response to various social 4. Biological Sciences, Agriculture and Forestry, and
needs, issues, and problems. Science and technology Veterinary Medicine … focusing on …
policies ensure that the whole country and all of its people 4.1 protecting and conserving biodiversity by full
will experience the progress that science can bring. Policies implementation of existing laws,
are guides to direct all efforts to a goal of developing a 4.2 use of biosafety and standard model by all ASEAN
scientifically advanced country. countries,
4.3 promoting indigenous knowledge systems and
The Department of Science and Technology, founded by indigenous people’s conservation, and
Pres. Corazon Aquino on January 30, 1987, is the executive 4.4 formulation of common food safety standards
department of the Philippine government responsible for
the coordination of science and technology-related Government Science &Technology Programmes and
projects in the Philippines and to formulate policies and Projects
projects in the fields of science and technology in support
of national development. A project, according to Ward (2009), is defined as a
temporary undertaking to create a unique product or
Thus, the DOST is considered the premiere science and service. A project has a defined start and endpoint and
technology body in the Philippines charged with the twin specific objectives that, when attained, signify completion.
mandate of providing central direction, leadership and A programme, on the other hand, is defined as a group of
coordination of all scientific and technological activities, related projects managed in a coordinated way to obtain
and of formulating policies, programs and projects to broader benefits not available from managing the projects
support national development. individually. There are many differences between a project
and a programme including scope, benefits realization,
On December 6, 2010, the NRCP, as tasked by DOST, time, and other variables. One notable difference is time;
spearhead a series of consultations with scientists, for example, a project by definition has a beginning and an
researchers, engineers, policymakers, and executives of end; however, certain programmes, while having a
offices and institutions across the entire Philippines that beginning may not have an end. A classic example of one of
would consolidate policy recommendations and initiatives these types of programmes is an annual construction
in pursuit of the ASEAN 2015 goals (NCRP & DOST, 2011). programme of the government.

The National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) There are existing programmes supported by the Philippine
is a collegial body of researchers formed in 1933 and government through DOST. Some of these are the following:
mandated to promote basic research for the continuing
improvement of the research capability of local scientists, 1. Providing funds for basic research and patents
foster linkages with other scientific organizations for related to science and technology. The government
enhanced cooperation in the development and sharing of funds basic and applied research. Funding of these
 research and projects are also from the Overseas There are many other areas and fields that are worth taking
Development Aid (ODA) from different countries. consideration to by our government in embarking on various
2. Providing scholarships for undergraduate and research and projects. The following are some of them:
graduate studies of students in the field of science
and technology. The country needs to produce more 1. Use of alternative and safe energy
doctoral graduates in the field of science and 2. Harnessing mineral resources
technology, and produce more research in these 3. Finding cure for various diseases and illness
fields, including engineering, 4. Climate change and global warming
3. Establishing more branches of the Philippine Science 5. Increasing food production
High School System for training young Filipinos in the 6. Preservation of natural resources
field of science and technology 7. Coping with natural disasters and calamities
4. Creating science and technology parks to encourage 8. Infrastructure development
academe and industry partnerships
5. Balik Scientist Program to encourage Filipino The Philippine Congress has also created various laws
scientists abroad to come home and work in the related to science and technology. These laws serve as a
Philippines or conduct research and projects in legal framework for science and technology in the country
collaboration with Philippine-based scientists to grow and benefits its citizens. These laws vary according
6. Developing science and technology parks in to different themes such as: conservation, health-related,
academic campuses to encourage and industry technology-building, and supporting basic research,
partnerships among others. Some laws and policies are in line with
7. The establishment of the National Science Complex international treaties such as the United Nations (UN),
and National Engineering Complex within the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
University of the Philippines campus in Diliman. Organization (UNESCO), Association of Southeast Asian
These aimed to develop more science and technology Nations (ASEAN) and other international agencies.
and engineering manpower resources needed by the
country. They also aimed to produce more research in 3.2b The Philippine Government S&T Agenda ... the
these fields. Continuation

In a broader sense, it is not only the DOST who is the sole The role that science and technology has played in
agency that promotes and supports Science and improving the life and conditions of people in the world is
Technology in the country, but rather, there are numerous vivid. Because the Philippines is a developing country, the
public and private organizations that also provides their status of science and technology in our country is still
expertise and assistance. One of which is PAASE. below par when compared with countries like Japan and
USA. There is a great need therefore to enact more laws and
The Philippine-American Academy of Science and strengthen existing ones to improve science and
Engineering (PAASE) identified several capacity-building technology including research and development in the
programmes that may help further develop Science and country.
Technology. And these are as follows:
Science and Technology Environment from 1986 to 2016
1. Establishment of national centers of excellence
2. Manpower and institutional development programs, President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino highlighted the
such as the Engineering and Science Education importance of science and technology in achieving
Program (ESEP) to produce more PhD graduates in economic progress. She helped establish the Department
science and technology of Science and Technology (DOST) which formulated the
3. Establishment of regional centers to support specific Science and Technology Master Plan 1991-2000. At that
industries that will lead the country in different time, the Philippines aimed to be a Newly Industrialized
research and development areas Country (NIC)
4. Establishment of science and technology business
centers to assist, advise, and incubate Succeeding presidents have had their fair share of policies
technopreneurship ventures geared towards improving the sector. President Fidel V.
5. Strengthen science education at an early stage Ramos introduced laws on inventors' incentives and
through the Philippine Science high School system science and technology scholarships.

In the field of education, several science-related programs President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo adopted policies
and projects were created to develop the scientific literacy focusing on a national innovation system and promoted
of the country. Special science classes were organized, and technological entrepreneurship under the Medium-Term
special science elementary schools were established Development Plan 2004-2010. The most recent National
indifferent regions. Aside from these, science and Science and Technology Plan 2002-2020 is largely focused
mathematics in basic education were continuously on building technological self-reliance.
improved.
Meanwhile, the Harmonized Agenda for science and
The current K12 education program included Science, technology presented to President Benigno Aquino in 2014
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) as highlighted two critical issues inclusive growth and disaster
one of its major tracks in the senior high school program to risk reduction. Critical technologies to address these
encourage more students to enroll in science-related fields issues have been developed and this include LIDAR
in college. processing, remote sensing, and microsatellites (DIWATA-
1).
Lately, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
launched its Philippine-California Advanced Research Government Policies and Laws Pertaining to Science
Institutes (PCARI) Project to allow several higher and Technology
education institutions in the Philippines and some US-
based laboratories, research institutes, and universities to To improve and strengthen science and technology
work on research and projects related to science, including research development, it is necessary that
agriculture, engineering, health, and technology. This government enact laws. Several laws have been enacted by
project is hoped to strengthen the STEM competitiveness of Congress since 1958 to present. They are as follows:
the country.
• RA 2067 - Science Act of 1958 - An Act to Integrate, strengthen the country's Science and Technology
Coordinate and Intensify Scientific and Technological education by fast-tracking graduates in the science,
Research and Development and To Foster Invention To mathematics, and engineering who shall teach in
Provide Funds Therefore and for Other Purposes secondary schools throughout the country. Towards
• RA. 3589 - An Act Amending RA 2067 Modifying the this end, scholarships shall be provided to finance the
National Science Development Board, National education of talented and deserving students in the
Institute of Science and Technology, and the Philippine third year of college and pursuing a degree or training in
Atomic Energy Commission. Extending Tax Exemption, the areas of science and technology and to provide
Privileges and Grants, Requests and Donations for incentives for them to pursue a career in teaching in
Scientific Purposes to Private Educational Institutions high schools in their home regions.
and For Other Purposes enacted June 22, 1963 • RA 10844 - An Act Creating the Department of
• R.A. 5207 - An Act Providing for the Licensing and Information and Communication Technology (DICT)
Regulation of Atomic Energy Facilities and Materials. which was signed into law on May 23, 2016. In
Establishing the Rules of Liability for Nuclear Damage accordance with the law, the Department of
and for Other Purposes Information and Communications Technology (DICT)
This Act was approved June 15, 1968 to encourage, shall be the primary policy planning, coordination,
promote, and assist the development and use of implementing, and administrative entity of the
atomic energy for peaceful purposes as a means to Executive branch of the government that will plan,
improve the health and prosperity of the inhabitants of develop, and promote the national ICT development
the Philippines and to contribute and accelerate agenda.
scientific, technological, agricultural, commercial, and
industrial progress. Major Science and Technology Development Plans
• Presidential Decree No. 49, s. 1972 established the
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and • Science and Technology Master Plan (STMP). This
Astronomical Services (PAGASA). Its function was to plan was submitted to the President in March 1989 by
provide environmental protection and to utilize the presidential task force composed of the
scientific knowledge to ensure the safety of the people Department of Science and Technology (DOST),
• Presidential Decree No. 334, s. 1973 created the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade
Philippine National Oil Company to promote industrial Industry (DTI), Department of Transportation and
and economic development through effective and Communication (DOTC), as well as the presidential
efficient use of energy resources adviser on public resources and three academic
• R.A. 8749 - The Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 was institutions directly involved in S & T. The development
enacted by Congress on June 23, 1999 to protect and of fifteen (15) leading edges to steer the country toward
preserve the environment and ensure the sustainable industrial development were: (1) aquaculture and (2)
development of its natural resources marine fisheries, (3) forestry and (4) natural resources,
• RA 8792 - An Act Providing for the Recognition and Use (5) process industry, (6) food and (7) feed industry, (8)
of Electronic Commercial and Non-Commercial energy, (9) transportation, (10) construction industry,
Transactions and Documents, Penalties for Unlawful (11) information technology, (12) electronics, (13)
Use Thereof and For Other Purposes passed in June 15, instrumentation and control, (14) emerging
2000. technologies (15) pharmaceuticals.

This Act aims to facilitate domestic and international To attain the objectives set in the STMP the following
dealings, transactions, assignment agreements, strategies were pursued: modernize the production
contracts and exchanges and storage of information sectors through massive technology transfer from
through the utilization of electronic, optical and similar domestic and foreign sources: upgrade the R&D
medium mode, instrumentality and technology to capability through intensified activities in high priority
recognize the width and reliability of electronic sector and S&T infrastructure development such as
documents related to such activities and to promote manpower development, and develop information
the universal use of electronic transactions in the networks, institutional building and S&T culture
government and the general public. development

• RA 9367 - Biofuels Act of 2006 - An Act to Direct the • Science and Technology Agenda for National
Use of Biofuels, Establishing for this Purpose the Development (STAND Philippines 2000). This plan
Biofuel Program. Appropriating Funds Therefore, And was initiated during the term of President Ramos and it
for Other Purposes. This Act was enacted by Congress embodied the country's technology development plan
on June 12, 2007, to develop and utilize indigenous and in the medium term, in particular, for the period 1993-
sustainable sources, clean energy sources to reduce 1998. The STAND identified seven export winners, 11
dependence on imported oil. domestic needs, three other supporting industries, and
• RA 9513 - The Renewable Energy Act of 2008 was coconut industry as priority investment area. The seven
passed by Congress to accelerate the development of identified export winners were computer software;
the country's renewable energy resources by providing fashion accessories; gifts, toys, and houseware;
fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to private investors and marine products; metal fabrications; furniture; and
equipment manufacturers/fabricators/suppliers, dried fruits. The domestic needs included food,
• R.A. 10175 - Philippine Cybercrime Prevention Act of housing, health, clothing, transportation,
2012 passed September 12, 2012. An Act Defining communication, disaster mitigation, defense,
Cybercrime, Providing for the Prevention, Investigation, environment, manpower development, and energy.
Suppression, and the Imposition of Penalties. Because of their linkages with the above sectors, three
Therefore, and For Other Purposes additional support industries were included in the list
of priority sectors, namely: packaging, chemicals, and
• R.A. 10612 - An Act Expanding the Coverage of the
metals. Lastly, because of its strategic importance, the
Science and Technology Scholarship Program and
coconut industry was included in the list.
Strengthening the Teaching of Science and
Mathematics in Secondary Schools and For Other • National Science and Technology Plan (NSTP 2002-
Purposes. 2020). The Department of Science and Technology
(DOST), with the mandate of formulating S&T policies,
This Act shall be known as the Fast-Tracked Science programs, and projects in support of national
and Technology Scholarship Act of 2018. It shall
 development priorities has remained driven by these • Republic Act 11035 "An Act Institutionalizing the
guiding visions stated in the NSTP mainly: Balik Scientist Program was signed into law by the
President on June 15, 2018. This law would give more
By 2004, S&T shall have contributed significantly to the incentives to returning Filipino experts, scientists,
enhancement of national productivity and inventors, and engineers who would share their
competitiveness and to the solution of pressing expertise in the country
problems. • On telecommunication, Department of Information
and Communication Technology, National
By 2010, the Philippines shall have earned niches and Telecommunication Commission and
become a world class knowledge provider and user in telecommunication companies have agreed to
selected science and technology areas, and shall have standardize voice call charges to P2.50.
developed a vibrant S&T culture. • On weather, 271 new weather stations were installed by
the Department of Science and Technology throughout
By 2020, the Philippines shall have developed a wide the country. The Zamboanga Doppler Weather Radar
range of globally competitive products and services System was also installed
which have a high technological content.
3.2 Science Education in the Philippines
The 12 priority areas for S&T development are:
a) Agriculture, forestry & natural resources, The Concept of Science Education
b) Health and medical services:
c) Biotechnology Science education
d) Information and Communication Technology • Deals with the teaching and learning of science and in
e) Microelectronics: helping the public develop science literacy. This is
f) Materials, science, and engineering: important to the promotion and development of
g) Earth and marine services: science and technology in the country. Science
h) Fisheries and aquaculture: education deals with the development of people in
i) Environment: science, which is the heart of science, technology, and
j) Natural disaster mitigation: society. And as such, the Philippines is trying its best to
k) Energy, and improve the state of science education in the country.
I) Manufacturing and service engineering, • Science education focuses on teaching, learning, and
understanding science. Teaching science involves
Status of Science and Technology and Plans for developing ways on how to effectively teach science.
Development under President Rodrigo Roa Duterte This means exploring pedagogical theories and models
in helping teachers teach scientific concepts and
The Duterte administration reassured its commitment to processes effectively. Learning science, on the other
science, technology, and innovation sector. This was hand, includes both pedagogy and the most interesting
established in the increase in the budget of the Department aspect, which is helping students understand and love
of Science and Technology (DOST). In a speech of President science. Understanding science implies developing
Duterte delivered by Budget Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno and applying science-process skills and using science
during the opening of the National Science and Technology literacy in understanding the natural world and
Week 2017, he stated that the budget of DOST has activities in everyday life
quadrupled the last seven years from P50 billion in 2010 to
P208 billion in 2017. The budget for research and John Dewey (2001) stressed the importance of utilizing the
development grew by nearly 6X over the same period of time natural environment to teach students. Accordingly, nature
from P1 billion in 2009 to P5 8 billion in 2017. This was must indeed furnish its physical stimuli to provide wealth of
disclosed in his speech during the celebration of the meaning through social activities and thinking. It is not
National Science and Technology Week at the World Trade surprising therefore that science education is important. In
Center in Pasay City on July 11, 2017 fact, Marx (1994) opines that science is going to be one of
the most important school subjects in the future.
In the 10-point economic agenda, the promotion of
science, technology and creative arts was included to Science education is justified by the vast amount of
enhance innovation and creative capacity towards self- scientific knowledge developed in this area that prepares
sustaining inclusive development. S&T must create an citizens in a scientifically and technologically driven world.
avenue for development in various sectors, such as in the Science education provides skills and knowledge that are
economy. necessary for a person to live in what Knight (1986)
describes as the age of science and to develop a citizenry
DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Pena identified the focus that will meet the goals of science in the society (Tilghman,
of the Department as technology transfer and 2005). Developing a science culture is therefore an
commercialization thus ten percent of its overall budget immense responsibility for schools.
was allocated for technology transfer. This resulted to
generation of 1000 new intellectual properties that can be Science Education in Basic and Tertiary Education
adopted in just one year.
In basic education, science education helps students learn
Major accomplishments of the Duterte administration are: important concepts and facts that are related to everyday
• Entry into the frontiers of space through its support to life (Carale & Campo, 2003; Meador, 2005; Worth &
the Philippine Space Technology Program. DIWATA-1 Grollman, 2003) including important skills such as process
satellites which was launched in 2016 was made by skills, critical thinking skills, and life skills that are needed
Filipino scientists who were trained in Japan. The in coping up with daily life activities (Chaille & Britain, 2002).
DIWATA-2 which will be launched in 2018 has improved
the capabilities to better monitor the country. This was Science education also develops positive attitude such as:
made by another batch of Filipino scientists. This space the love for knowledge, passion for innovative things,
technologies can also be utilized in other sectors, such curiosity to study about nature, and creativity (Lind, 1997).
as in agriculture and disaster preparedness Science education will develop a strong foundation for
• A Memorandum of Agreement between Russia and the studying science and for considering science-related
Philippines regarding the space program will soon careers in the future. This is an investment for the country
materialize. to develop a scientifically cultured and literate society.
In tertiary education, science education deals with Association (PTA). The school is under the Department of
developing students’ understanding and appreciation of Education.
science ideas and scientific works. This is done through
offering basic science courses in the General Education Manila Science High School
curriculum. Science education in the tertiary level also The school was established on October 1, 1963, as the
focuses on the preparation of science teachers, scientists, Manila Science High School (MSHS). It is the first science
engineers, and other professionals in various high school in the Philippines. The organization and
sciencerelated fields such as engineering, agriculture, curriculum of the school puts more emphasis on science
medicine, and health sciences. The state provides and mathematics. MSHS aims to produce scientists with
scholarships to encourage more students to pursue souls. In order to do this, humanities courses and other
science courses. electives are included in their curriculum. Students are also
encouraged to participate in various extracurricular
Science Schools in the Philippines activities. The school administers an entrance examination,
the Manila Science High School Admission Test (MSAT), for
Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) students who wish to enroll. The MSAT has five parts:
This a government program for gifted students in the aptitude in science, aptitude test in mathematics, problem-
Philippines. It is a service institute of the Department of solving test in science, problem-solving test in
Science and Technology (DOST) whose mandate is to offer mathematics, and proficiency in English. The school prides
free scholarship bases for secondary course with special itself from producing outstanding alumni and for winning
emphasis on subjects for science career (Republic Act No. various national competitions.
3661). This school maintains a dormitory for all its students.
Central Visayan Institute Foundation
Since its inception, the PSHSS continues to pursue its It is the home and pioneer of the prominent school-based
vision to develop Filipino science scholars with scientific innovation known as the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP).
minds and passion for excellences. PSHSS students have The DLP is a synthesis of classical and modern pedagogical
proven to be a beacon of excellence, courage and hope for theories adapted to foster the highest level of learning,
the country. They have brought honor to the Philippines creativity, and productivity.
through their exemplary achievements in various
international competitions and research circles. When the The school takes pride in its Research Center for
students graduate from the school, they are expected to Theoretical Physics (RCTP) established in 1992, which
pursue degrees in science and technology at various organizes small instructional workshops to foster the
colleges and universities locally or abroad. informal but intense exchange of ideas and perspectives on
outstanding problems in physics and mathematics.
Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project
The Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project is 3.3 Selected Indigenous Science and Technology
in pursuance to DepEd Order No. 73 s. 2008, and DepEd
Order No. 51 s. 2010. This project started in June 2007 with Indigenous Knowledge System
57 identified elementary schools that participated or were
identified as science elementary schools in the country. The communities in the Philippines have maintained vast
Since its inception, the number have grown to more than 60 amounts of indigenous knowledge, cultural practices,
schools nationwide, and this is now its sixth year of traditions, and beliefs. These include beliefs and practices
implementation. ranging from different areas such as health, environment,
The SSES Project aims to develop Filipino children peace and order, agriculture, food production, astronomy,
equipped with scientific and technological knowledge, music, and literature. The indigenous knowledge system of
skills, and values. Its mission is to: the people served as the foundation for the development of
• Provide a learning environment to science-inclined indigenous science.
children through a special curriculum that recognizes
the multiple intelligence of the learners; Indigenous knowledge is embedded in the daily life
• Promote the development of lifelong learning skills; experiences of young children as they grow up. They live and
and grow in a society where the members of the community
• Foster the holistic development of the learners. prominently practice indigenous knowledge. Their parents
and other older folks served as their first teachers and their
The subject Science and Health is taught in Grade 1 with a methods of teaching are very effective in transmitting
longer time compared to other subjects; 70 minutes for cultural knowledge in their minds. The lessons they learned
Grades 1 to 3 and 80 minutes for Grades 4 to 6. The are intimately interwoven with their culture and the
curriculum also utilizes different instructional approaches environment. These lessons comprised of good values and
that address the learning styles and needs of the learners life stories of people on their daily life struggles. Their views
like the use of investigatory projects. about nature and their reflections on their experiences in
daily life are evident in their stories, poems, and songs.
Quezon City Regional Science High School
The school was established on September 17, 1967. Some examples of indigenous knowledge that are taught
Originally, it was named Quezon City Science High School. and practiced by the indigenous people are:
It was turned into a regional science high school for the 1. Predicting weather conditions and seasons using
National Capital Region in 1999. The school was a product knowledge in observing animals’ behavior and
of a dream to establish a special science school for celestial bodies;
talented students in science and mathematics. The focus 2. Using herbal medicine;
of the curriculum is on science and technology. The school 3. Preserving foods;
still teaches the basic education courses prescribed by the 4. Classifying plants and animals into families and
Department of Education (DepEd) for secondary education. groups based on cultural properties;
However, there are additional subjects in sciences and 5. Preserving and selecting good seeds for planting;
technology that students should take. The school envisions 6. Using indigenous technology in daily lives;
to serve as a venue in providing maximum opportunities for 7. Building local irrigation systems;
science-gifted students to develop spirit of inquiry and 8. Classifying different types of soil for planting based
creativity. The school is wellsupported by the local on cultural properties;
government unit and by the Parents and Teachers 9. Producing wines and juices from tropical fruits; and
 10. Keeping the custom of growing plants and vegetables 2. Indigenous science is guided by culture and
in the yard. community values such as the following
2.1 The land is a source of life. It is a precious gift
Indigenous Science from the creator.
2.2 The Earth is revered as “Mother Earth.” It is the
Even before the time of the Spanish colonization in the origin of their identity as people.
Philippines, various people and communities already 2.3 All living and nonliving things are interconnected
practiced science. They invented tools and built structures, and interdependent with each other.
studied the medicinal uses of plants, observed heavenly 2.4 Human beings are stewards or trustee of the
bodies to predict seasons and weather, and used land and other natural resources. They have a
indigenous science in agriculture. These are considered responsibility to preserve it.
indigenous science, which is one of the foundations of 2.5 Nature is a friend to human beings – it needs
modern science. respect and proper care.
3. Indigenous science is composed of traditional
Indigenous science is part of the indigenous knowledge knowledge practiced and valued by people and
system practiced by different groups of people and early communities such as ethnobiology, ethno-medicine,
civilizations (Gribbin, 2001; Mkapa, 2004; Sibisi, 2004). It indigenous farming methods, and folk astronomy.
includes complex arrays of knowledge, expertise, practices,
and representations that guide human societies in their Indigenous science is important in the development of
enumerable interactions with the natural milieu: science and technology in the Philippines. Like the ancient
agriculture, medicine, naming and explaining natural civilizations, indigenous science gave birth to the
phenomena, and strategies for coping with changing development of science and technology as a field and as a
environments (Pawilen, 2005). Ogawa (1995) claimed that it discipline. Indigenous science helped the people in
is collectively lived in and experienced by the people of a understanding the natural environment and in coping with
given culture. everyday life. UNESCO’s Declaration on Science and the
Use of Scientific Knowledge (1999) recognized indigenous
According to Cajete (2004), indigenous science includes science as a historical and valuable contribution to science
everything, from metaphysics to philosophy and various and technology.
practical technologies practiced by indigenous peoples
both past and present. Iaccarino (2003) elaborated this idea
by explaining that science is a part of culture, and how
science is done largely depends on the cultural practices of
the people

Indigenous beliefs also develop desirable values that are

relevant or consistent to scientific attitudes as identified by
Johnston (2000), namely: (1) motivating attitudes; (2)
cooperating attitudes; (3) practical attitudes; and (4)
reflective attitudes. These cultural beliefs therefore can be
good foundation for developing positive values toward
learning and doing science and in bringing science in a
personal level.

Pawilen (2005) explained that indigenous science

knowledge has developed diverse structures and contents
through the interplay between the society and environment.
According to Kuhn (1962), developmental stages of most
sciences are characterized by continual competition
between a number of distinct views of nature, each partially
derived from, and all roughly compatible with the dictates
of scientific observation and method. Sibisi (2004) also
pointed out that indigenous science provides the basics of
astronomy, pharmacology, food technology, or metallurgy,
which were derived from traditional knowledge and
practices.

Pawilen (2006) developed a simple framework for

understanding indigenous science. Accordingly, indigenous
science is composed of traditional knowledge that uses
science process skills and guided by community values and
culture.

1. Indigenous science uses science process skills such

as observing, comparing, classifying, measuring,
problem solving, inferring, communicating, and
predicting.