Science, Technology and Nation-Building (STS)

Summary

Dr. Ken Espiritosa delves into the crucial role of science and technology in Philippine nation-building across different periods. From pre-colonial innovations in agriculture and medicine to colonial-era advancements in infrastructure and education, the narrative underscores the country's rich history of scientific progress. The post-colonial era, particularly under President Marcos, saw significant strides with the establishment of research institutions and healthcare facilities, emphasizing the enduring impact of science and technology on national development.

Takeaways

• 🌱 Early Filipinos applied scientific principles in daily living, using indigenous knowledge systems for agriculture, medicine, and transportation.
• 🏛 The pre-colonial period saw the development of farming systems, such as the rice terraces, which showcased innovation in adapting to challenging environments.
• 🌾 The Philippines is currently the 8th largest rice producer globally, highlighting the significance of agricultural advancements.
• 🏰 Spanish colonization introduced modern construction techniques and formal education, including the establishment of schools and universities.
• 📚 The Spanish period marked the beginning of formal science and technology education in the Philippines, with a focus on medicine and engineering.
• 🏫 American colonization modernized various aspects of life, including agriculture, food processing, medicine, and pharmacy, and established public education and research universities.
• 🏥 Post-colonial Philippines continued to pursue science and technology programs, with varying degrees of emphasis under different administrations.
• 🔬 Former President Ferdinand Marcos played a significant role in advancing science and technology, establishing agencies and promoting laws to foster development.
• 🚇 The creation of the Light Rail Transit Authority and other infrastructure projects during Marcos's term demonstrated a commitment to technological advancement.
• 🌐 The legacy of science and technology development in the Philippines continues to impact the nation's progress and nation-building efforts.

Q & A

What are the three learning outcomes for Chapter 3 on Science, Technology, and Nation Building?

The learning outcomes are: 1) to explain how early Filipinos applied scientific principles in their daily living; 2) to present government policies on science and technology and explain their importance to the nation; and 3) to discuss the role of science and technology in nation building.

How did early Filipinos use scientific knowledge in their daily lives during the pre-colonial period?

Early Filipinos used plants as medicine, were knowledgeable about the medicinal properties of plants, and practiced farming and animal raising. They also developed modes of transportation and innovative farming systems like the rice terraces, which addressed food supply and production issues.

What significant contribution did the native Ifugao people make to agriculture in the pre-colonial period?

The native Ifugao people built the rice terraces by hand, which allowed them to cultivate crops on mountain sites in cold temperatures. They incorporated an irrigation system using water from forests and mountain tops.

How did the Spanish colonization impact the development of science and technology in the Philippines?

Spanish colonization introduced modern construction methods, formal education, and scientific institutions. They established schools and colleges, and prioritized the study of medicine and engineering, although they developed exclusive health and educational systems that were accessible mainly to the upper class.

What were the key contributions of the American occupation to the advancement of science and technology in the Philippines?

The Americans modernized agriculture, food processing, medicine, and pharmacy. They established a public educational system, improved engineering works and health conditions, and founded modern research universities and public hospitals.

Which Philippine president is noted for ushering in significant advancements in science and technology?

Former President Ferdinand Marcos is noted for his efforts in advancing science and technology, establishing and strengthening many agencies in this field during his presidency.

What was the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and who was its first chairman?

The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) was created by President Ferdinand E. Marcos on July 12, 1980, as a government agency to determine policies and oversee the planning and extension of the light rail system. The first chairman was Imelda Romualdez Marcos, the first lady and governor of Metro Manila at the time.

How did the establishment of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) contribute to the nation?

PAGASA, established under the Department of National Defense, provides environmental protection and utilizes scientific knowledge to ensure the safety of the people.

What is the significance of the National Academy of Science and Technology in the Philippines?

The National Academy of Science and Technology was improved to the Department of Science and Technology, which plays a crucial role in the development and promotion of science and technology in the country.

How does the script describe the legacy of science and technology in the Philippines after the Marcos presidency?

The script indicates that progress in science and technology continued even after Marcos' presidency, leaving a lasting legacy in the field.