Philippines' Journey to Scientific and Technological Progress

Development of Science and Technology in the Philippines: A Historical Overview

• President Ferdinand Marcos prioritized science and technology in the national development by amending the 1973 Philippine Constitution.
• Marcos provided funds for science teaching equipment, supported projects in applied sciences and science education, and gave a big part of the war damage fund to private universities to encourage science and technology research.
• Marcos added several institutions to the National Science Development Board (NSDB) and assisted 107 institutions in undertaking nuclear energy work.
• Marcos created the National Grains Authority and the Philippine National Oil Company.
• During Corazon Aquino’s presidency, the National Science and Technology Authority was replaced by the Department of Science and Technology, and the Presidential Task Force for Science and Technology came up with the first Science and Technology Master Plan.
• The National Economic and Development Authority emphasized the importance of science and technology in the Philippine Development Plan during Aquino’s presidency.
• Priority for science and technology personnel increased when Magna Carta for Science and Technology Personnel was established during Fidel V. Ramos’ presidency.
• Estrada’s presidency saw the signing of two major legislations: Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 and Electronic Commerce Act of 2000.
• Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s administration was dubbed as the “Golden Age” of science and technology and prioritized the use of the internet for the advancement of schools and industry.
• Arroyo strengthened schools and education systems, including the Philippine Science High School, and promoted the development and usage of biofuels in the country.
• The market machinery did not adapt and invest in science and technology due to high-risk front-end costs.
• By 1998, there were an estimated 3,000 competent scientists and engineers in the country.