FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
STUDY GUIDE FOR MODULE NO. 4
SCIENCE, TENCHNOLOGY, AND NATION-BUILDING
MODULE OVERVIEW
This module will discuss the influence of science and technology in the development of the Philippine
society. It identifies government programs, projects, and policies geared toward boasting the science and
technological capacity of the country. This will also include discussions on Philippine indigenous science and
technology.
MODULE LEARNING OBJECTIVES
At the end of this Module, you should be able to:
1. Identify the contributions of Filipino scientists in science and technology;
2. Discuss the role of science and technology in Philippine nation building
3. Evaluate government policies pertaining to science and technology in terms of their contributions to
nation building
4. Identify actual science and technology policies of the government and appraise their impact on the
development of the Filipino nation
BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES:
PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD
Even before the Spaniards came to the Philippine islands, the natives of the archipelago already had
practices linked to science and technology. Modern men came to mainland Asia around 50 000 years and up
until about 40000 years ago used stone tools and weapons. They also later developed shell ornaments and
pottery. Remnants of these are still present today as many people are still using clay pots in cooking.
Eventually, Filipinos gained the skill to extract metals such as gold, copper, bronze, and iron and use
these metals for many purposes. Other activities such as weaving, making glass ornaments, and tools
development were done by our ancestors.
Before arrival of the Spaniards, Filipino communities are already thriving and interacting with other
cultures such as the Chinese, Indonesians, and Japanese. There is trade between other countries for porcelain,
glass beads, and metal products with materials such as beeswax, cotton, pearl, tortoise shells and nuts. Early
Filipinos were also involved in coastal trade, and seamanship became highly developed. These trades also
influenced technology development in the Philippines.
Early Filipinos also have their own system of writing, though literary tradition is still mainly oral. Also,
systems of weighing, measuring, and time were also present in early Filipino society.
Filipino technology in agriculture was also present and highly developed. There exist systems of
farming and animal-raising both for food production and helping in daily tasks. Early Filipinos were also engaged
in various agricultural practices such as developing irrigation systems, predicting weather conditions and
seasons through animal behavior and celestial bodies, classifying plants and animals based on their properties,
preparing seeds for planting, classifying soils according to their properties, and growing plants in yards. In
terms of health and medicine, early Filipinos have been using certain plants for their medical properties in
treating ailments and healing injuries.
By Agricmarketing at en.wikipedia - I created this work entirely by myself., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17010616
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
1
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
The Banaue Rice Terraces are among the sophisticated products of engineering by pre-Spanish era
Filipinos. Through these terraces, the people were able to cultivate crops on the mountainsides in cold
temperatures. They incorporated an irrigation system that uses water from the forests and mountain tops to
achieve an elaborate farming system. These terraces, which are still functional, show the innovative and
ingenious way of the natives to survive in an otherwise unfriendly environment.
Pre-colonial Filipino science and technology is basically folk science and indigenous knowledge.
There was also no pressure for a large science and technology development because of the relatively small
population, simple needs, and abundant natural resources.
Indigenous Science
According to Pawilen (2005) and Sibisi (2004), indigenous science includes complex arrays of
knowledge, expertise, practices, and representations derived from traditional knowledge and practices that
guide human societies in their numerable interactions with the natural milieu, such as astronomy, metallurgy,
agriculture, medicine, food technology, naming and explaining natural phenomena, and strategies for coping
with changing environments. It has developed diverse structures and contents through the interplay between
the society and the environment. Pawilen (2005) also developed a simple framework for understanding
indigenous science.
THE CONCEPT OF INDIGENOUS SCIENCE
Indigenous science uses science process skills such as observing, comparing, classifying, measuring,
problem-solving, inferring, communicating and predicting. Indigenous science is guided by culture and
community values such as the following:





The land is a source of life. It is a precious gift from the creator.
The Earth is revered as “Mother Earth”. It is the origin of their identity as people.
All living and non-living things are interconnected and interdependent with each other.
Human beings are stewards or trustee of the land and other natural resources.
Nature is a friend to human beings – it needs respect and proper care.
According to Johnston (2000), indigenous beliefs also develop desirable values that are relevant or
consistent to scientific attitudes, such as motivating, cooperating, practical, and reflective attitudes.
An indigenous knowledgesystem is embedded in the daily life experiences of young children as they
grow up. They live in a society where the members of the community prominently practice indigenous
knowledge.Parents and other older folks served as first teacher and their methods of teaching are very effective
in transmitting cultural knowledge.Lessons learned (good values, life stories from daily struggles) are intimately
interwoven with their culture and the environment.Views about nature and their reflections on their experiences
in daily life are evident in their stories, poems and songs.
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
2
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES:
COLONIAL PERIOD
The colonization of the Philippines contributed to the growth of science and technology in the
archipelago.
Spanish Colonial Period
The Spanish colonial period is regarded as the time when modern science and technology in the
Philippines began. During this era, the Spanish colonizers changed the way that the Filipino society works.
They used of reduccion in consolidating scattered communities into larger and fewer communities within hearing
distance of church bells and adopted how Filipinos rule. They created towns, which made tax collection, forced
labor, and economic activities much easier to implement.
Science Education
Schools were established which were primarily managed by priests and missionaries. Thus, religious
education was given focus. The establishment of schools introduced concepts in science and technology, which
began formal science and technology education. Early science education focused on the human body, plants,
animals, and heavenly bodies. Early technology education focused on the use and development of tools for
everyday life.
Higher education was centered in cities such as Manila. However, only a select few have access to
these institutions, such as Spaniards, mestizos, and a few select Filipinos. Medicine and advanced sciences
were introduced in formal colleges and universities established by Catholic orders, though training were
generally poor. Biology, medicine, and pharmacy were given focus. For Bachiller en Artes degrees, science
subjects include physics, chemistry, natural history, and mathematics.
Other schools were also established. Vocational education was introduced by the latter part of 19 th
century. However, there is a lack of engineering schools and nautical schools and agricultural schools were
few.
Also, by 1863, the government initiated reforms in education where basic education and higher
education will be supervised by the government. However, this was not fully implemented. Overall, public
education was not very progressive.
Agriculture, Trade, and Industry
The opening of the Suez Canal allowed the penetration of liberal ideas to the Philippines from Europe
and eased communication and transportation. This also allowed select Filipinos were able to go to Europe and
study science and technology. Prominent ones include Jose Rizal and Antonio Luna.
By Boxer Codex (1590) - Unknown Spanish Author/Compiler with Likely Chinese Artist from Spanish Colonial
Manila, Philippines, circa 1590 AD. http://webapp1.dlib.indiana.edu/metsnav/common/navigate.do?oid=VAB8326&pn=8&size=large,
Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=82198314
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
3
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
Galleon trade allowed both goods and ideas from the West to reach the country, though this benefited
the colonizers and the Chinese merchants more than the Filipinos. Trade was given more focus by the Spaniard
colonial authorities due to the prospect of big profits. These trades allowed other ideas, crops, tools, cultural
practices, technology and Western practices to reach the country. Because of the Galleon trade, the
shipbuilding industry progressed.
Initially, agriculture and industry were neglected and its progress was slow. However, the founding of
the Real Sociedad Economica de los Amigos del Paris de Filipinas encouraged its eventual development. Many
crops were cultivated and some industries were developed. When the Philippines became open for foreign
trade, industries such as embroidery, tobacco, and weaving flourished. Trade and commerce also led to the
establishment of public amenities, such as transportation, lighting, banking, and information services, especially
in Manila.
Other Aspects
Colonization by the Spaniards provided the Philippines with modern means of construction. In terms of
engineering, Spaniards introduced town planning and building with materials such as bricks and tiles. Because
of this, churches, hospitals, and other public buildings were built.
Hospitals became centers for research work, especially in terms of the causes and treatments of
infectious diseases, such as malaria, cholera, and leprosy. Herbal medicines were researched and catalogued.
Sanitation was also given importance for public health purposes. Laboratorio Municipal Ciudad de Manila was
created in 1887 for public health concerns and medical analysis.
Meteorological studies were promoted by the Jesuits, who founded the Manila Observatory. These
studies became important and frequent that public typhoon warnings were able to be issued. The Observatory
also led to seismological and astronomical studies. Research on Philippine flora, agronomy, geology, and
chemistry was also done during the Spanish era though very little of the results and activities of these are
known.
Some contributors in science and technology during this period are Fr. Ignacio Mercado., Dr. Trinidad
Pardo de Tavera and Dr. Leon Ma Guerrero, chemist Anaclento del Rosario, and medicine scholars Dr. Manuel
Guerrero, Dr, Jose Montes and Dr. Elrodario Mercado.
Though the Spaniards colonized the Philippines for more than 300 years, science and technology did
not fully grow and reached its full potential. This is due to superstitions and Catholic doctrines and poor
administration of the Spanish government, among others.
American Colonial Period and the Commonwealth Period
The American colonial period saw a rapid growth in science and technology in the Philippines. These
are due to progress in public education and research and science public services.
The Americans established the public education system and created a Department of Public Instruction
in 1901. The public educational system is free, with English as a medium of instruction. They reorganized
school science. Basic education focused on nature studies and science and sanitation. Normal schools were
also established to train teachers, as well as other professional and technical schools. Industrial and vocational
courses were offered but were not preferred by Filipinos at the time, and choosing career paths that led to what
they perceive as more prestigious jobs was preferred.
It was during the American colonization period that the University of the Philippines was established.
The University started with mostly foreign teachers and professors. Filipinos were sent overseas for education
and training and later on, replaced many of the foreign professors of the University of the Philippines.
The private education sector also flourished. They started out to be ill-equipped and inadequate in
equipment and facilities, but regulations by the American colonial government improved the sector eventually.
Studying overseas was also encouraged by the American government and select students were sent
to be trained as engineers, physicians, teachers, nurses, and other professionals. They were asked to serve in
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
4
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
the Philippines as a return for this privilege.
Science and technology focused on agriculture, food processing, forestry, medicine and pharmacy.
The Americans established the Bureau of Government Laboratories in 1901 to deal with the study of tropical
diseases and laboratory projects. This was replaced with the Bureau of Science in 1905 to nurture the
development of science and technology. In this bureau, serums and prophylactics needed by the Philippine
General Hospital and Bureau of Health were manufactured and diseases were studied.
Reorganization of different offices based on their specializations were also done during this time, such
as the Weather Bureau, Bureau of Health, Mines, Forestry, Agriculture, Coast and Geodetic Survey, Plant
Industry, and Animal Industry.
The American colonial government also improved engineering works and health conditions by creating
more public hospitals than the Spaniards and by doing research to control diseases. They improved
transportation and communication. New technologies were also introduced by American scholars in the
country.
During the Commonwealth period, where a transitional government was established for Philippine’s
eventual independence, the Constitution actually acknowledged the importance of science and technology.
Other government corporations and councils were created, such as the National Economic Council, National
Power Corporation, National Development Company, and National Abaca and Other Fibers Corporation.
The Americans have more influence in the development of science and technology in the Philippines
compared to the Spaniards. American occupation modernized almost all aspects of life in the country. However,
the Philippines remained as agricultural country and industrialization was still slow. This seems to stem from
the focus on agricultural and medical sciences characteristic during this time. Also, mineral resources in the
country were exploited during this time. In addition, the Philippines was not able to become fully independent
due to the economic ties with the Americans. Unfortunately, the Japanese government occupied the Philippines
between 1942 and 1945, which halted science and technology development in the Philippines.
BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES:
POST-COLONIAL PERIOD
After colonization by Japan, the country focused on building institutions and public facilities such as
schools, hospitals, and transportation systems as well as providing technological training and human resource
development. Human resource development focused on producing engineers, scientists, technology experts,
doctors, and other professionals.
Though limited in resources, the country focused in improving science and technology. One way is
through the use of Overseas Development Allocations (ODA) to help in scientific productivity and technological
capability.
In the sector of education, private institutions remained the main source of higher education by Filipinos.
Still, the number of students pursuing physical sciences, engineering medicine, and agriculture is inadequate
to meet the needs of the country.
Nevertheless, professional organizations such as the Philippine Medical Association and Philippine
Institute of Chemical Engineers which aimed to review and revise the curriculum for their respective fields to
improve instruction and professional training.
Also, many more government agencies were established such as the Institute of Science, Institute of
Nutrition, Science Foundation of the Philippines, and Commission on Volcanology. However, government
support for science and technology was still inadequate. For example, in 1950, the US Economic Survey
Mission to the Philippines reported that the budget for research as well as compensation for scientists is still
low. Because of this, the Institute of Science was the reorganized to become the Institute of Science and
Technology, with the additional mandate to improve technological development and explore natural resources
for economic growth.
By 1957, the state of science and technology in the Philippines was still declining. Due to this, the
Science Act of 1958 was enacted. This established the National Science Development Board, the Philippine
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
5
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
Atomic Energy Commission, and the National Institute of Science and Technology. By 1960s, the Philippine
Inventor’s Commission and Philippine Coconut Research Institute were also established. Also, by 1964, the
Philippine Science High School started its operation through Republic Act 3661 signed by President Diosdado
Macapagal.
One of the presidents who ushered in advancements in science and technology was former president
and dictator Ferdinand Marcos. During his term, many agencies were established such as the Philippine Textile
Research Institute, National Grains Authority (now the National Food Authorirty), Plant Breeding Institute,
International Rice Research Institute, Philippine Council for Agricultural Research (now the Philippine Council
for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development), Philippine Atmospheric
Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, National Committee on Geological Sciences, Philippine
National Oil Company, National Academy of Science and Technology. The current site of the Department of
Science and Technology in Taguig was then proclaimed as the Philippine Science Community. It was during
Marcos’s term that the National Science Development Board and its agencies were reorganized into a National
Science and Technology Authority to provide central direction and coordination of scientific and technological
research and development.
In terms of science education, the Marcos regime encouraged the Department of Education and Culture
to promote science education. The Mindanao and Visayas campuses of the Philippine Science high schools
were established and salaries of both teachers and administrators were increased. Among other manifestations
of his support in science and technology education are listed below:

SECOND SONA (January 23, 1967): He declared that science was necessary for the development
programs, and thus, directed the Department of Education to revitalize the science courses in public
high schools.

THIRD SONA (January 22, 1968): He recognized that technology was the leading factor in economic
development, and channeled additional funds to support projects in applied sciences and science
education

FOURTH SONA (January 27, 1969): He gave a big part of the war damage fund to private universities
to encourage them to create courses in science and technology and to research. The government also
conducted seminars for public and private high school and college science teachers, training programs
and scholarships for graduate and undergraduate science scholars, and workshops on fisheries and
oceanography.

FIFTH SONA (January26, 1970): He emphasized that the upgrading of science curricula and teaching
equipment is crucial to the science development program. He also assisted 107 institutions in
undertaking nuclear energy work by sending scientists to study nuclear science and technology abroad,
and providing basic training to 482 scientists, doctors, engineers, and technicians.

SEVENTH SONA (January 24, 1972): He spoke about his major development projects in reforming
sectors of education. Such projects included research and development schools, technical institutes,
science education centers, and agricultural colleges and vocational high schools.
The presidency of Corazon Aquino saw the replacement of NSTA to DOST. She also created the
Presidential Task Force for Science and Technology which came up with the first Science and Technology
Master Plan or STMP. The goal of STMP was for the Philippines to achieve newly industrialized country status
by the year 2000. It was during her term that Executive Order No.128 was signed, which reorganized the
National Science and Technology Authority.
During Fidel Ramos’ presidency, the number of science and technology personnel increased, more
Philippine High Schools were established (in Visayas and Mindanao), and health care services were given
importance through programs such as "Doctors to the Barrio Program." His administration also saw the
establishment of the Magna Carta for Science and Technology Personnel (Republic Act No. 8439), Science
and Technology Scholarship Law of 1994 (Republic Act No. 7687), Inventors and Inventions Incentives Act
(Republic Act No. 7459), and The Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (Republic Act No. 8293), and
the Science and Technology Agenda for National Development (STAND) was established.
The presidency of Joseph Estrada saw the legislation of Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (Republic
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
6
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
Act No. 8749) and Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 8792). He also has a full-scale program
for cost-effective irrigation technologies and programs for social and social services for those in need.
During Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term, projects for the environment and science and technology
(like the “Biofuels” act) was given focus to increase economic level. "Filipinnovation" was also coined to help
the Philippines to be an innovation hub in Asia. The STI was developed further by strengthening the schools
and education system such as the Philippine Science High School (PSHS)..
During Benigno Aquino III’s term, he conferred four new National Scientist for their contribution in the
scientific field.
GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
The Philippine government introduced and implemented several programs, projects and policies to boost
the area of science and technology. The goal is to prepare the whole country and its people to meet the
demands of a technologically driven world and capacitate the people to live in a world driven by science.
Department of Science and Technology
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the key government institution for science and
technology. DOST has sought the expertise of the National Research Council of the Philippines (NCRP) to
consult various sectors in the society to study how the country can prepare itself in meeting the ASEAN 2015
Goals. As a result of the consultation, NCRP is expected to recommend policies and programs that will improve
the competitiveness of the Philippines in the ASEAN Region. The following were the policies that were the
results of the consultation.
1. Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, International Policies and Governance
a. Integrating ASEAN awareness in basic education without adding to the curriculum
b. Emphasizing teaching in the mother tongue
c. Developing school infrastructure and providing for ICT broadband
d. Local food security
2. Physics, Engineering and Industrial Research, Earth and Space Sciences, and Mathematics
a. Emphasizing degrees, licenses, and employment opportunities
b. Outright grants for peer monitoring
c. Review of RA 9184
d. Harnessing science and technology as independent mover of development
3. Medical, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences
a. Ensuring compliance of drug-manufacturing firms with ASEAN-harmonized standards by full
implementation of the Food and Drug Administration
b. Creating an educational council dedicated to standardization of pharmaceutical services and
care
c. Empowering food and drug agencies to conduct evidence-based research as pool of
information
d. Allowing two percent of the GDP to research
e. Legislating a law supporting human genome project
4. Biological Sciences, Agriculture, and Forestry
a. Protecting and conserving biodiversity by full implementation of existing laws
b. Use of biosafety and standard model by ASEAN countries
c. Promoting indigenous knowledge systems and indigenous people’s conservation
d. Formulation of common food and safety standards
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
7
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
Other programs supported by the Philippine government through DOST include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Providing funds for basic research and patents related to science and technology
Providing scholarships for studies of students in science and technology
Establishing more branches of Philippine Science High School System
Creating and developing science and technology parks
Establishment of Balik Scientist Program
Establishment of National Science Complex and National Engineering Complex
Philippine-American Academy of Science and Engineering
The Philippine-American Academy of Science and Engineering identify several capacity building
programs such as:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Establishment of national centers of excellence
Manpower and institutional development programs
Establishment of regional centers to support scientific industries
Establishment of science and technology business centers
Strengthening of science education at an early age
Philippine Development Plan
The Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 (PDP) is a massive undertaking in improving the country’s
infrastructure, increasing energy access, lowering costs for citizens, keeping up with economic growth, and
staying within the bounds of global agreements for climate change and sustainable growth. It was approved by
the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board and President Rodrigo Duterte on February
20th, 2017. The impact will be manifested in the following outcomes:







The Philippines will be an upper middle-income country by 2022.
Growth will be more inclusive as manifested by a lower poverty incidence in rural areas – from
30 percent in 2015 to 20 percent in 2022.
The Philippines will have a high level of human development by 2022.
The unemployment rate will decline from 5.5 percent to 3-5 percent in 2022.
There will be greater trust in government and in society.
Individuals and communities will be more resilient.
Filipinos will have greater drive for innovation.
The pillars of the said program are
1. Malasakit: refers to the goal to regain people’s trust in public institutions and each other. These
strategies aim to promote awareness of anti-corruption measures, invigorate the public sector,
increased access to legal aid, and promoting culture sensitive governance.
2. Pagbabago: aimed at reducing inequality by increasing opportunities for growth and
transformation. The popularized term has been ‘inclusive growth’. Universal social protection, basic
education, and other social services will be improved upon while also raising the country’s status
in the global market for more opportunities.
3. Patuloy na Pag-unlad: focuses on economic growth. The Philippines have seen massive growth
in the past decade or so through their change from an agricultural economy to industry and
manufacturing focused powerhouse. The Philippines plan to focus on continued growth of their
technology, R&D, and innovation sectors.
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
8
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
Philippine Congress has also created laws that serve as legal framework for science and technology.
Some other areas that the country is looking forwards related to science and technology include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Use of alternative and safe energy
Harnessing mineral resources
Finding cure for various diseases and illness
Fighting climate change and global warming
Increasing food production
Preservation of natural resources
Coping with natural disasters and calamities
Infrastructure development
GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Despite being considered a developing country, the Philippines also contributes to the global
advancement of science and technology. The Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries in terms of
natural disasters. Many of the discoveries and inventions made by the Filipinos were therefore built from
indigenous materials or created to adapt to the harsh tropical environment. Among these inventions are a
mosquito ovicidal / larvicidal trap system called OL trap by DOST for the dengue problem and e-jeepney, which
evolved from the military jeeps left by the Americans after World War II but utilizes electricity instead of the more
expensive diesel.
Below is a list of scientists and their contributions. This list include all scientists Lee-Chua (2000)
identified in her book Ten Outstanding Filipino Scientists who have made significant contributions in different
science disciplines: agriculture, mathematics, physics, medicine, marine science, chemistry, engineering and
biology.
ENRIQUE MAPUA OSTREA JR.
He is a neonatologist who has
significantly impacted science and
technology in the Philippines for
his contributions to the field of
pediatrics,
neonatal
hyperbilirubinemia and neonatal
drug addiction, including his
pioneering work on the detection
of fetal exposure to drugs,
tobacco,
alcohol
and
environmental
toxicants,
by
analysis
of
meconium,
a
newborn’s first stools.
JOSE BEJAR CRUZ JR.
He has made major contributions
to the theory and practice of
automatic control. His work in the
1970s and 1980s on the control of
leader-follower systems is still
considered one of the major
contributions of the half-century in
the theory of hierarchical control
systems. He was also elected as
officer of the famous Institute of
Electrical
and
Electronic
Engineering.
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
CAESAR A. SALOMA
He is an internationally renowned
physicist recognized for his
contributions to photonics and
signal processing that were
accomplished with colleagues and
students at the National Institute of
Physics. He led the development
of a method to generate highcontrast images of semiconductor
sites via one photon optical beaminduced current imaging and
confocal reflectance microscopy.
The project received a US patent
on June 26, 2007.
9
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
LILIAN FORMALEJO PATENA
She is known for discovering the
seedless breed of lime and
pomelo, and for doing research on
plant biotechnology.
FABIAN MILLAR DAYRIT
He is known for his phytochemical
work for the development of
lagundi as part of the National
Integrated Research Program on
Medicinal Plants.
MARI-JO PANGANIBAN RUIZ
She is known for being an
outstanding educator and graph
theorist.
EDGARDO GOMEZ
He is a Professor Emeritus for
marine biology at the University of
the Philippines Marine Science
Institute. He saw the need to
protect
the
Philippines
archipelago’s
vast
marine
resources in particular that of coral
reefs. He also pioneered giant
clam (Tridacna gigas) breeding
stationed in Bolinao and other
protective areas for coastal
communities of the Philippines.
LOURDES JANSUY CRUZ
She is a Filipino biochemist whose
research has contributed to the
understanding of the biochemistry
of toxic peptides from the venom
of
fish-hunting Conus marine
snails. Her research shed light on
the effects of conotoxins on the
central nervous system and how it
can cause muscular paralysis,
sleepiness,
or
drowsiness,
involuntary motion and more.
JOSEFINO CACAS COMISO
He was instrumental on a global
project observing the planet for
rapidly declining perennial sea ice
cover, and produced a paper on
the subject that has been cited
over one thousand times. His work
has revealed the extraordinary
rate at which Arctic ice is affected
by
global
warming,
at
approximately three times the
intensity of the global average.
WILLIAM PADOLINA
He was a former president of
National Academy of Science and
Technology (NAST). He is
recognized for his significant
contributions in the field of natural
products
chemistry,
coconut
chemistry, biotechnology and in
management of research and
development.
RAMON CABANOS BARBA
He is known for his invention of
flower induction of mango trees.
The impact and importance of his
discoveries, along with his selfmotivation to help others, led him
to change how mangoes and other
crops are grown around the world,
thus improving the livelihood for
those who work in agriculture
industry.
ANGEL ALCALA
He contributed to the country’s
marine
development
and
concerns. He is known for his
fieldwork to build sanctuaries and
to promote biodiversity in the
aquatic ecosystems of the
Philippines.
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
10
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
GREGORY LIGOT TANGONAN
He is known for his research in the
field
of
communications
technology.
He
has
been
instrumental
in
developing
applications of optoelectronics in
radar, optical networking and
analog systems.
Module No.4
RAFAEL DINEROS GUERRERO
III
He was recognized because of his
scientific
and
technical
contributions to the growth of Sex
Reversal
and
Hatchery
Techniques
that
help
the
commercial fabrication of high
yielding market-size tilapia in the
Philippines and other nations.
SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES
The Philippines is trying its best to improve the state of science education in the country. One of the
strategies is to establish science schools that will encourage students to pursue their career in science and
technology and to nurture their gifted potentials.
Science education focuses on teaching, learning and understanding science. Teaching science
involves exploring pedagogical theories and models in helping teachers teach scientific concepts and processes
effectively. Learning science includes both pedagogy and helping students understand and love science.
Understanding science implies developing and applying science process skills and using science literacy in
understanding the natural world and activities in everyday life.
John Dewey argued that “education and learning are social and interactive processes, and thus school
itself is a social institution through which social reform can and should take place. In addition, he believed that
students thrive in an environment where they are allowed to experience and interact with the curriculum, and
all students should have the opportunity to take part in their own learning.” (Talebi, 2015)
Science education in basic sciencehelps students learn important concepts and facts that are related
to everyday life (Carale & Campo, 2003; Meador, 2005; Worth & Grollman, 2003); includes important skills such
as process skills, critical thinking skills, and life skills that are needed in coping up with daily life activities (Chaille
& Britain, 2002); develops positive attitude such as the love for knowledge, passion for innovative things,
curiosity to study about nature and creativity (Lind, 1997), and develops a strong foundation for studying science
and for considering science-related careers in the future.
On the other hand, science education in tertiary education deals with developing students’
understanding and appreciation of science ideas and scientific works and focuses on the preparation of science
teachers, scientists, engineers, and other professionals in various science-related fields such as engineering,
agriculture, medicine, and health sciences. In addition to major courses, this is also done through offering basic
science courses in the General Education curriculum.
In the field of science education, several science-related programs and projects were created to develop
scientific literacy. These include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Special science classes
Special science elementary schools
Philippine Science High School System
STEM track of the K-12 educational system
PICARI project
Offering basic science courses in the General Education curriculum
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
11
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
Science Schools in the Philippines
PHILIPPINE SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL SYSTEMS (PSHSS)
VISION: We are the leading science high school in the Asia Pacific Region preparing our
scholars to become globally competitive Filipino scientists equipped with 21st century skills
and imbued with the core values of truth, excellence, and service to nation.
MISSION:The Philippine Science High School, operating under one System of Governance
and Management, provides scholarship to students with high aptitude in science and
mathematics.
The PSHS System offers an education that is humanistic in spirit, global in perspective, and in
orientation. It is based on a curriculum that emphasizes science and mathematics and the development of wellrounded individuals.
The PSHS System prepares its students for careers in Science and Technology and contributes to
nation building by helping the country attain a critical mass of professionals and leaders in Science and
Technology. It is a government program for gifted students in the Philippines. It is the service institute of the
DOST whose mandate is to offer free scholarship basis for secondary course with emphasis on subjects
pertaining to the sciences, with the end-view of preparing its students for a science career (Republic Act No.
3661)
PSHSS students have proven to be a beacon of excellence, courage, and hope for the country. They
have brought honor to the Philippines through their exemplary achievements in various international
competitions and research circles.
Graduates of PSHSS were expected to pursue degrees in science and technology at various colleges
and universities locally or abroad.
SPECIAL SCIENCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS (SSES) PROJECT
MISSION:To provide a learning environment to science inclined children through a special curriculum which
recognizes multiple intelligences and is geared towards the development of God-loving, nationalistic, creative,
ecologically aware, scientifically and technologically oriented and skilled individuals who are empowered
through lifelong learning skills.
It is in pursuance to DepEd Order No. 73 s. 2008, and DepEd Order No. 51 s. 2010. It started in June,
SY 2007-2008: Batch I with 57 identified elementary school. Another 3 schools in Region V were included since
its inception. In SY 2011-2012, the program was again expanded for Batch 3; additional 5 schools in Region V
were included
The SSES Project aims to develop Filipino children equipped with scientific and technological
knowledge, skills, and values.The SSES utilizes Science curriculum that will provide for the development of
lifelong learning skills and foster the holistic development of the child. The subject Science& Health is taught
starting in Grade1 and provides longer instruction time in Science. In Grades I-III, 70 minutes and for Grades
IV-VI, 80 minutes. The Curriculum also utilizes varied teaching approaches/strategies to address the multiple
intelligences, learning styles and needs of the learners.
QUEZON CITY REGIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
1By Source, Fair use,
https://en.wikipedia.org/w/
index.php?curid=36833659
Established on September 17, 1967, it was originally named Quezon City Science
High School. It was appointed as the Regional Science High School for the National Capital
Region since 1998.The focus of the curriculum is on science and technology.The school
envisions to serve as a venue in providing maximum opportunities for science-gifted students
to develop spirit of inquiry and creativity.The school is well-supported by the Local
Government Unit and by the Parents and Teachers Association (PTA). The school is under
the Department of Education.
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
12
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
MANILA SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
MISSION:To provide relevant and quality education through its Special Science Curriculum,
its empowered school manager and staff, its committed, dedicated and well-trained
learning facilitators and support personnel and its linkages with various publics for the
development of active, productive, morally upright and development-oriented Filipinos.
VISION:A nerve center of excellence that enables healthy life-long learners with strong
2By Source (WP:NFCC#4), Fair use,
https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.p
hp?curid=63587886
moral, social, cultural and technological foundation to actively participate in the
development of a strong republic.
It was established on October 1, 1963 as the Manila Science High School (MSHS). It was also the
first science high school in the Philippines.The curriculum of the school puts more emphasis on science and
mathematics.It aims to produce scientists with souls. In order to do this, humanities courses and other
electives are included in their curriculum.
The school administers an entrance exam, the Manila Science High School Admission Test (MSAT),
for students who wish to enroll.The MSAT has five parts: aptitude in science, aptitude test in mathematics,
problem-solving test in science, problem-solving test in mathematics, and proficiency in English.
CENTRAL VISAYAN INSTITUTE FOUNDATION
MISSION: As the educational arm of the Central Visayan Institute Foundation, the High
School Department shall endeavor to equip each student with the necessary skills for future
work and further studies. It shall develop and protect each individual's talents and innate
creativity, and guide each one towards the path of fullest realization of potential and creative
abilities. It shall instill in the youth a spirit of service to country and love of God, above all.
It is the home and pioneer of the prominent school-based innovation known as the Dynamic Learning
Program (DLP), which is a synthesis of classical and modern pedagogical theories adapted to foster the
highest level of learning, creativity and productivity.
It takes pride in its Research Center for Theoretical Physics (RCTP) established in 1992, which
organizes small international workshops to foster the informal but intense exchange of ideas and perspectives
on outstanding problems in physics and mathematics.
LEARNING ACTIVITY 1
1. Prepare for a short quiz.
SUMMARY
The following learning points summarize what you have learned in this section:

Even before the time of Spanish colonization in the Philippines, various people and communities
already practiced science. They invented tools and built structures, studied medicinal use of plants and
used indigenous science in agriculture.

The growth of science and its development as a field in the country is a hybrid of indigenous and foreign
ideas. Spain and the United States, played an important role in building the foundation of science in the
Philippines. To further strengthen the science program in the country, the government establishes
various science programs, policies and projects

Through the years, many Filipinos were able to establish themselves as scientists and science
educators in various scientific areas and fields. Invention and innovations were done by these Filipino
scientists. Finally, the demands of globalization prompted the Philippines to invest in science and
technology programs and projects.
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
13
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4

Science education deals with the teaching and learning of science and in helping the public develop
science and literacy. This is important in the promotion and development of science and technology in
the country.

Science education deals with the development of people in science, which is the heart of science,
technology and society.

To promote science education, science schools were established to develop gifted students in science
and mathematics. Science programs and projects were organized and developed to nurture innovation
in science in the country, and to encourage individuals to pursue careers and research in science and
technology.

The communities in the Philippines have maintained vast amounts of indigenous knowledge, cultural
practices, traditions and beliefs.

The indigenous knowledge system of the people served as the foundation for the development of
indigenous science.
REFERENCES
1. Quinto, Edward Jay M. and Nieva, Aileen D. (2019). Science, Technology, and Society. pp 47-60.
Quezon City: C&E Publishing.
2. National Economic and Development Authority. (2017). Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022.
Pasig City. Retrieved from http://www.neda.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Abridged-PDP-20172022_Final.pdf
3. Caoili, O. (1986). A History of Science and Technology of the Philippines. In Analysis of Conditions
for National Scientific and Technological Self-Reliance: The Philippine Situation. Quezon City:
University of the Philippines. Retrieved from
https://www.academia.edu/40192220/A_HISTORY_OF_SCIENCE_AND_TECHNOLOGY_IN_THE_P
HILIPPINES
4. https://prezi.com/p/-ycfrdomgpnv/brief-history-of-science-and-technology-in-the-philippines/
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science_and_technology_in_the_Philippines#cite_note-sciust-3
6. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1967/01/23/ferdinand-e-marcos-second-state-of-the-nationaddress-january-23-1967/
7. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1968/01/22/ferdinand-e-marcos-third-state-of-the-nation-addressjanuary-22-1968/
8. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1969/01/27/ferdinand-e-marcos-fourth-state-of-the-nation-addressjanuary-27-1969/
9. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1970/01/26/ferdinand-e-marcos-fifth-state-of-the-nation-addressjanuary-26-1970/
10. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1972/01/24/ferdinand-e-marcos-seventh-state-of-the-nationaddress-january-24-1972/
11. https://dost.gov.ph/phocadownload/Downloads/Journals/Compendium_of_Philippine_Science_and_T
echnology_Laws.pdf
12. https://study.com/academy/lesson/ramon-barba-biography-contributions-inventions.html
13. https://prabook.com/web/josefino.comiso/3591434
14. https://grainger.illinois.edu/alumni/distinguished/9338
15. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lourdes_J._Cruz
16. https://prabook.com/web/fabian.dayrit/259145
17. http://biographynotmine.blogspot.com/2012/12/dr-rafael-d-guerrero-iii-father-of.html
18. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/la-consolacion-college/financial-management/lecturenotes/filipino-scientist-and-their-contributions/5498880/view
19. https://rdcu.be/b6vnH
20. https://www.slideshare.net/iPagador/science-education-in-the-philippines
21. http://www.catanduanestribune.com/article/1Q1F
22. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quezon_City_Science_High_School
23. https://www.schoolandcollegelistings.com/PH/Jagna/114999155247922/Central-Visayan-InstituteFoundation
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
14
FM-AA-CIA-15 Rev. 0 10-July-2020
Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society
Module No.4
24. https://prezi.com/dejrmc4xbvhd/indigenous-science-and-technology-in-the-ph/
PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY
15