STS Lesson 3

Introduction

• This lecture series discusses the development of science and technology in the Philippines.

• Instructor: Jeremiah G. Pedral.

The Science and Technology in the Philippines Before Spanish Colonization

Early Inhabitants

• Aetas (Atis)

  • First people in the Philippines, arrived about 25,000 years ago.

  • Came via land bridges from mainland Asia.

  • Lived by hunting, fishing, and gathering wild plants and fruits.

Migration of Malay People

• Malays

  • Believed to have originated from coastal Borneo, arriving roughly 2,300 years ago.

Technological Introduction by Malays

• Malays introduced formal farming, building techniques, iron melting, pottery, and rice field systems.

• Known for carving spectacular rice terraces in North Luzon approximately 2,000 years ago.

Indonesian Contributions

• Indonesians

  • First immigrants arriving by sea from South Asia around 5,000 years ago.

  • Practiced hunting, fishing, and small-scale farming.

  • Advanced in clothing and tool making compared to Aetas.

Wave-Migration Theory

• Three ethnic waves of Malays:

  • First Wave: Established foundations of Bontoc and other northern tribes.

  • Second Wave: Established indigenous groups in Bicolano, Bisayan, and Tagalog regions.

  • Third Wave: Gave rise to Muslim Malays.

Skills and Tools in Early Filipino Times

• Emergence of skills and tools:

  • Sowing and Polishing Stones

  • Production of Adzes

  • Pottery

  • Medicinal Plant Extracts

  • Alphabet and Counting Methods

  • Measurement and Calendar Systems

The Philippine Science and Technology During the Spanish Regime

Improvements in Education

• Significant advancements in science and technology during the Spanish regime.

• Schools were established, improving the education system by the late 16th century.

Notable Educational Institutions

• Colegio de San Ildefonso (Cebu, 1595)

• Colegio de San Ignacio (Manila, 1595)

• Colegio de Nuestra Señora del Rosario (Manila, 1597)

• Colegio de San Jose (Manila, 1601)

Advancements in Medicine

• In 1871, a school of medicine and pharmacy opened, producing 62 licensed professionals within 15 years.

Jesuit Contributions

• Jesuits promoted meteorological studies and founded Manila Observatory at Ateneo Municipal de Manila in 1865.

Impact of the Suez Canal

• Built in the 19th century, it provided Filipinos access to European countries and opened their minds to western ideals, fostering development in science.

Science and Technology in the Philippines During the American Era

Educational Reforms

• Enhanced education system with emphasis on English proficiency.

• Freedom of religion and the concept of "free education" introduced.

Philippine Economic Growth

Economic Overview (2018)

• Driven by:

  • Services: 6.8% growth

  • Industry: 6.7% growth

  • Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry, and Fishing: 0.9% growth

• GDP per capita comparison (2019):

  • Philippines: 9,493 USD

  • Singapore: 103,717 USD

  • Thailand: 20,474 USD

  • Indonesia: 14,019 USD

Science Education Policies

• Emphasis on science and technology for national development.

• Need to upgrade science curriculum and teaching equipment as highlighted by former President Ferdinand Marcos in the 1970s.

• Established several Philippine Science High Schools in Visayas and Mindanao in 1986.

Formation of DOST

• The National Science and Technology Authority replaced by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), solidifying its role in governmental decision-making.

Growth of Filipino Scientists

• By 1998, over 3,000 Filipino scientists and engineers were recorded.

Legislative Provisions for Science and Technology

Significant Acts

• Republic Act No. 10692: Modernization of PAGASA.

• Republic Act No. 10844: Creation of the Department of Information and Communications Technology.

• Republic Act No. 11035: Establishment of the Balik Scientist Program for returning experts.

• Republic Act No. 11312: Amending the Magna Carta for S&T personnel to enhance opportunities.

Roles of DOST

Eight-Point Agenda

• Prioritized research and development programs in:

  • Biotechnology

  • ICT

  • Environment

  • Pharmaceuticals

  • Basic Research

• Expanded existing programs for technology upgrading, innovation, and commercial applications.

Support for Inventors and Entrepreneurs

• Fostering innovation through resources and programs to enhance success stories among Filipino technology entrepreneurs.

Indicators of Scientific and Technological Progress

• Scientific Publications: Measurement of new scientific knowledge from research.

  • Types: original research, review literature, communications.

• Patent Grants: Exclusive rights for new inventions to protect intellectual properties, fostering innovation in various sectors.

Philippines in Global Context

• In 2017, ranked 68th globally with 27,811 scientific papers; a rise to 66th rank with 45,309 scientific papers in 2020.

Famous Filipino Scientists

Contributions

• Paheantharine: Developed by an outstanding pharmacist for managing high blood pressure.

• Artificial Coral Reefs: Innovation by a biologist promoting aquatic biodiversity.

• Geothermal Energy Involvement: Volcanologist recognized for contributions to renewable energy.

• Medicinal Plants: Taxonomist known for research and documentation of local flora.

• Pediatric Advances: Establishment of a dedicated children’s hospital and medical devices.

• Coconut Oil Technology: Engineer known for eco-friendly energy solutions.

Recognition

• Notable awards received by aforementioned scientists for their contributions to medicine, biology, and health.

Conditions for Success in S&T

• Progressive scientific knowledge fosters a healthy society.

• Technological innovations improve quality of goods and services contributing to economic growth.

• Innovation in communication and international relations enhances education and trade.

Provisions of 1987 Constitution for S&T

Key Articles

• Article XIV, Section 10: State prioritization of research, innovation, and educational opportunities in science.

• Article XIV, Section 11: Incentives for private involvement in scientific research.

• Article XIV, Section 12: Encouraging technology transfer for national benefit through broad participation.

• Article XIV, Section 13: Protection of intellectual property rights for scientists and inventors.