Unit 1: Lesson III

Science and Technology and Nation Building

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES

The history of science and technology in the Philippines started way

back before the country gained independence from the American
colonizers. Before the coming of the Spanish colonizers, the early
inhabitants of the archipelago had their own culture, traditions, belief
system and indigenous knowledge system that kept them organized and
sustained their lives and communities for many years.

In the pre-Spanish Philippines, scientific knowledge is observed in

the way of planting their crops to provide them food and taking care of the
animals to help their daily tasks and for food production.
It is also used in observing and interpreting the movement of heavenly
bodies to predict seasons and climates. They used science in preparing
the soil for agricultural purposes.Technology is used by the people in
building houses, irrigations, and developing tools that they can use in
everyday life. They developed tools for planting, hunting, cooking, and
fishing; for fighting their enemies during war or tribal conflicts; and
transportation, their enemies during war or tribal conflicts; and
transportation.

The different archaeological artifacts discovered in different parts of

the country also prove that the Metal Age also had significant influence on
the lives of early Filipinos. The sophisticated designs of gold and silver
jewelry, ceramics, and metal tools have helped in the development of
different tools.

Banaue Rice Terraces of Benguet

The Banaue Rice Terraces are among the Philippines' top tourist
destinations. Called the 8th Wonder of the Modern World by locals, these
terraces are said to have been carved into the mountains and hillsides by
the ancestors of the local indigenous Ifugao tribes, and are well over 2,000
years old.
Spanish Colonization

When the Spaniards

colonized the country, they
brought with them their own
culture and practices. They
established schools and
introduced the concepts of
subjects and disciplines. It
was the beginning of formal
science and technology in
the country, known now as
the school of science and
technology.

The Galleon Trade was a government monopoly. Only two galleons

were used: One sailed from Acapulco to Manila with some 500,000 pesos
worth of goods, spending 120 days at sea; the other sailed from Manila to
Acapulco with some 250,000 pesos worth of goods spending 90 days at
sea.The galleon trade has brought additional technology and development
in the Philippines. Although it is only beneficial for the Spaniards, these
trades allowed other ideas, crops, tools, cultural practices, practices,
technology, and Western practices to reach the country.
American Colonization

They have more influence in the development of science and

technology than Spaniards. They established the public education system,
improved the engineering works and the health conditions of the people.
They reorganized the learning of science and introduced it in public and
private schools. Researches were done to control malaria, cholera, and
tuberculosis and other tropical diseases. They allowed American scholars
to introduce new knowledge and technology in the country. The Protestant
church missions in different places in the country also brought hospitals
and schools to far-flung areas. Transportation and communication
systems were improved, though not accessible throughout the country.
Mineral resources of the country were explored and exploited.

American colonization brought more improvement in the fields of

Science and Technology in the country , but because of the conflict
between Americans and Japanese hours after the bombing of Pearl
Harbor, Japan attacked the Philippines on the morning of December 8,
1941, in Baguio and Davao. Around noon time, Iba Air Base and Clark Air
Base were bombed.

Japanese Colonization

World War II has

destabilized the development
of the country.
Institutions and public
facilities were burned and
many lives were destroyed.
 The human spirit to survive and to rebuild the human spirit to survive
and to rebuild the country may be strong but the capacity of the country to
bring back what was destroyed was limited.

Jeepneys originate from the American colonial period share taxis

known as auto calesas, commonly shortened to “AC”. These evolved to
modified imported cars with attached carriages in the 1930s which served
as cheap passenger utility vehicles in Manila. These vehicles were mostly
destroyed in World War II. The need for replacement transport vehicles led
to the use of U.S. military jeeps left over from the war, became the
template for the modern jeepney.

Philippine Policies and Laws Pertaining to 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. It is very clear that science and
technology play a huge role in nation building. Thus, in order to strengthen
the implementation of science, technology and research development in a
country, its government must enact policies and laws.

For the Philippines, below are the policies and laws enacted by the
Congress from 1958 to present.

● R.A. 2067 also known as the Science Act of 1958. An Act to

Integrate, Coordinate and Intensity Scientific and Technological
Research and Development and to Foster Invention to Provide
Funds therefore and for other Purposes.
● R.A 3589. An Act Amending R. A. 2027 Modifying the National
Science Development Board, National Institute of Science and
Technology and the Philippine Atomic Energy Commission,
Extending Tax Exemption, Privileges and Grants, Request and
Donations for Scientific Purposes to Private Educational Institutions
and for other Purposes enacted June 22, 1963.
● R. A. 5207 known as the "Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability
Act of 1968."An Act Providing for the Licensing and Regulation of
Atomic Energy Facilities and Materials, establishing the Rules of
Liability for Nuclear Damage and for other Purposes. This act was
approved June 15, 1968 to encourage, promote, assist the
development and use of atomic energy for peaceful purposes as a
means to improve the health and prosperity of the inhabitant of the
Philippines and to contribute and accelerate scientific,
technological, agricultural, commercial and industrial progress.
● Presidential Decree No. 78, series of 1972 established the
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services
Administration (PAGASA). Its main function is to provide
environmental protection and to utilize scientific knowledge to
ensure the safety of the people.
● Presidential Decree No. 334, series of 1973 created the Philippine
National Oil Company to promote industrial and economic
development through effective and efficient use of energy
resources.
● Executive Order 128 known as the Reorganization Act of the
National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA). Thus NSTA
was replaced by the Department of Science and Technology
(DOST). DOST is the premiere science and technology body in the
country charged with the twin mandate of providing central
direction, leadership and coordination of all scientific and
technological activities, and of formulating policies, programs and
projects to support national development.
● R. A. 8749 is known as the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 and
was enacted by the Congress on June 23, 1999. Clean Air Act is a
comprehensive air quality management policy and program which
aims to achieve and maintain healthy air for all Filipinos.
● R.A. 8792 known as "Electronic Commerce Act of 2000." This Act
aims to facilitate domestic and international dealings, transactions,
arrangements agreements, contracts and exchanges and storage
of information through the utilization of electronic, optical and
 similar medium, mode, instrumentality and technology to recognize
the authenticity and reliability of electronic documents related to
such activities and to promote the universal use of electronic
transaction in the government and general public.
● R. A. 9367 known as the "Biofuels Act of 2006". This act was
enacted to develop and utilize indigenous renewable and
sustainable-sources clean energy sources to reduce dependence
on imported oil; mitigate toxic and greenhouse gas (GSG)
emissions; increase rural employment and income; and ensure the
availability of alternative and renewable clean energy without any
detriment to the natural ecosystem, biodiversity and food reserves
of the country.
● R. A. 9513 known as the “Renewable Energy Act of 2008“. The
aims of this act are to accelerate the exploration and development
of renewable energy resources such as, but not limited to, biomass,
solar, wind, hydro, geothermal and ocean energy sources, including
hybrid systems, to achieve energy self-reliance, through the
adoption of sustainable energy development strategies to reduce
the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and thereby minimize the
country’s exposure to price fluctuations in the international markets,
the effects of which spiral down to almost all sectors of the
economy; increase the utilization of renewable energy by
institutionalizing the development of national and local capabilities
in the use of renewable energy systems, and promoting its efficient
and cost-effective commercial application by providing fiscal and
non-fiscal incentives; and encourage the development and
utilization of renewable energy resources as tools to effectively
prevent or reduce harmful emissions and thereby balance the goals
of economic growth and development with the protection of health
and the environment.
● R.A. 10175 known as the “Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012”. It
aims to address legal issues concerning online interactions and the
Internet in the Philippines.
● R. A. 10612 known as the “Fast-Tracked S&T Scholarship Act of
2013”. This is an Act Expanding the Coverage of the Science and
Technology (S&T) Scholarship Program and Strengthening the
Teaching of Science and Mathematics in Secondary Schools. Its
main objective is to strengthen the country’s science and
technology education by fast-tracking graduates in the sciences,
mathematics, and engineering who shall teach science and
 mathematics subjects in secondary schools throughout the country.
Towards this end, scholarships shall be provided to finance the
education of talented and deserving students in their third year of
college, and pursue a degree or training in the areas of science and
technology, and to provide incentives for them to pursue a career in
teaching in high schools, especially in their home regions.
● R. A. 10844 known as the “Department of Information and
Communications Technology (DICT) Act of 2015”. This law shall
strengthen its efforts on the following focus areas: Policy and
Planning; Improved Public Access; Resource-Sharing and
Capacity-Building; and Consumer Protection and Industry
Development. Apart from this, the DICT is expected to spearhead
the following endeavors: Nation building through ICT; Safeguarding
of Information; and Advancement of ICT in the Philippines.

Major Development Programs in Science and

Technology in the Philippines

The major development programs in Science and Technology (S&T)

in the Philippines were created as a response to the country's need for
technological advancement and innovation to boost its economic
competitiveness, promote social development, and address various
challenges faced by the country. One of the key drivers for the creation of
these programs was the recognition that S&T plays a critical role in
advancing economic and social development.

In recent years, the Philippine government has prioritized the

development of S&T as a key driver of national progress, and as such,
has launched various initiatives and programs to support research and
development, innovation, and technology commercialization.

Balik Scientist Program

● Republic Act No. 11035
● This program encourages Filipino scientists who are living abroad
to return to the Philippines and share their expertise and knowledge
with the local scientific community.
National R&D Program for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources
● This program aims to improve the productivity and competitiveness
of the agriculture and fisheries sectors in the country through
research and development.

Science for Change Program

● This program seeks to build a more responsive, relevant, and
globally competitive S&T system in the Philippines by investing in
research and development and promoting innovation and
entrepreneurship.

Collaborative Research and Development to Leverage Philippine

Economy (CRADLE)
● This program aims to accelerate technology commercialization and
promote industry competitiveness through research and
development partnerships between academic and industry sectors.

Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD)

● The PCHRD is the lead agency in health research and
development in the country, working to improve the health of
Filipinos through the development of new drugs, diagnostics, and
other healthcare technologies.

National R&D Program for Industry and Energy

● This program aims to develop new technologies and processes to
enhance the competitiveness of Philippine industries and promote
the development of renewable energy sources.

National Space Development Program

● This program aims to develop the country's capabilities in space
technology and applications, including satellite development,
remote sensing, and space research.

Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT)

● The ERDT is a consortium of eight universities that works to
improve the quality of engineering education in the country and
promote research and development in engineering and related
fields.
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for Development
Program
● This program aims to leverage ICT to promote socio-economic
development in the country, including improving access to
education, healthcare, and other basic services.

Major Personalities in Science and Technology in

the Philippines

When it comes to science, the Philippines has provided significant

contributions to both local and global areas. The discovery of several
remarkable innovations and inventions was due to the brilliant scientists
behind them all. Moreover, they can conduct more studies and research to
develop solutions and exciting discoveries. DOSTv presents some of the
known Filipino scientists and their remarkable scientific contributions so
you can get familiar with them.

Fe Del Mundo​
(Field of Specialization: PEDIATRICS)
● Founded in the first pediatric
hospital in the Philippines and is
known for shaping the Modern Child
Healthcare System in the Philippines.
● She was the first female
President of the Philippine Pediatric
Society and the first woman to be
named National Scientist of the
Philippines in 1980.
● The first Asian to be elected President of the Philippine Medical
Association in its 65-years of existence.

Regarding the child healthcare system, Fe del Mundo was a notable

Pediatrics pioneer. She founded the first pediatric Philippine hospital and
focused on addressing what the country lacked regarding medical
equipment in specific communities like rural areas.
Dr. Fe del Mundo lived on the second floor of the Children's Medical
Center in Quezon City and continued making early morning rounds until
she was 99 years old.
 And among her remarkable contributions to the Filipino people, an
incubator made out of bamboo is her most famous invention. She has
specifically designed the equipment so people who live in places without
electrical power can regulate the temperature of their infants well.

EDGARDO GOMEZ
(Field of Specialization: Marine Biology)
● A Filipino Biologist who has
conferred the rank of National
Scientist of the Philippines in
2014.
● Led the world’s first
national-scale assessment of
damage to Coral Reefs. Gomez
used his Pew fellowship to
establish demonstration coral
reef reserve/restoration sites in
the Philippines that highlight
opportunities to increase
productivity as well as the physical and aesthetic condition of reefs.
With this excellent initiative in protecting and replanting the corals in
the sea, he was awarded the National Scientist in 2014 and
received a fantastic package, like a lifetime pension
● He took part in creating the baseline map of the Philippines, and
provided information to the Philippine Government during talks over
the territorial disputes in the Spratly Islands.
Marine biology was the field of specialization of Edgardo Gomez. He
led the first-ever national-scale assessment of damage to coral reefs
worldwide, placing him in 9th place for the Asian Scientists 100 magazine.
 JULIAN BANZON
● Outstanding Scientist, Scholar,
Professor, and Biophysical Chemist, was
born in Balanga, Bataan on March 25,
1908.
● Gained recognition for his notable
researches on the Philippine coconut and
other indigenous materials as
“Renewable Sources of Chemicals and
Fuels”
● Filipino Biochemist
● Was frequently invited to attend
Scientific Conferences all over the world.

As a pioneer in renewable energy, Julian Banzon uses his skill in

producing alternative fuels through his research methods. As he
specialized in chemistry, it was easy for him to do this incredible
innovation, and he was even known for extracting resident coconut oil
from the fruit. With his outstanding research, he was able to help people
not solely to rely on fossil fuels.

JUAN SALCEDO JR.

(Field of Specialization: Nutrition and
Public Health)
● Dr. Salcedo contributed immensely
to the areas of biochemistry,
nutrition, physiology.
● Developed the “Enriched Rice”
● He has published 265 works and
researches in Philippine and foreign
science journals.
● Dr. Salcedo is recipient of many
awards including the Ramon
Magsaysay award for outstanding
public health nutritionist in 1957;
Republic Cultural Heritage award in
science, 1966; and the Presidential Pro Patria award, 1969.
 Juan Salcedo developed “Enriched Rice,” a rice variety fortified with
vitamin B1, which helps prevent beriberi. His discovery helped reduce the
cases of beriberi in the Philippines and in other countries.

GREGORIO ZARA
(Field of Specialization: ENGINEERING
and INVENTION)
● Inventor of the Videophone
● Awards and Honors: National
Scientist Award in the Philippines
● He discovered the Physical Law
of Electrical Kinetic Resistance, the
Earth Induction Compass, which is still
used by the Pilots, and in 1954 his
Airplane Engine powered by alcohol
had a successful test flight at the Ninoy
Aquino International Airport.

Engineering and inventions that is

what Gregorio Zara is known for. He was a scientist and engineer in the
country, passionate about Science and technology. His most significant
invention was the videophone, which he patented together with 30 other
devices for better and more convenient communication among people.

VIDEOPHONE
Zara's video telephone invention enabled the caller and recipient to
see each other while conversing, laying the foundation for
video-conferencing. The videophone first caught on as a device that easily
enabled distance learning and video conferencing and also proved helpful
for the hearing impaired. Then came such derivations as Skype and
smartphones, and the videophone became ubiquitous worldwide.
EARTH INDUCTOR COMPASS
Designed to compensate for the weaknesses of the magnetic
compass, the Earth inductor compass provided pilots with a more stable
and reliable reference instrument. They were used in the Douglas World
Cruisers in 1924 during the Around-the-World flight by the U.S. Army Air
Corps.

EDUARDO QUISIMBING
(Field of Specialization: Plant Taxonomy,
Systematics, and Morphology)
● A Filipino Biologist, a leading
authority on plants in the
Philippines.
● “Father of Philippine Orchidology.”
● Author of Taxonomic and
Morphological papers.
● Earned Ph.D. in plant of Taxonomy,
systematics and morphology at the
University of Chicago in 1923.

Quisumbing is a pioneer in the study

of Philippine medicinal plants where he made tremendous contributions.
His book Medicinal Plants in the Philippines is the forerunner of all
researches on medicinal plants in the country. He was author of more than
129 scientific articles published here and abroad.

GEMINIANO DE OCAMPO
(Field of Specialization: Ophthalmology)
● Chairman of the First Board of
Ophthalmology.
● Father of Modern Philippine
Ophthalmology.
● Introduced the Corneal
Transplantation in the Philippines
● In 1956, he designed an
Ophthalmologic Instrument called De
Ocampo Dissector, which is
manufactured by an American
Company
 Geminiano de Ocampo is the only National Scientist in the
Philippines specializing in ophthalmology. With his knowledge of eye care,
he was the first person to diagnose and treat specific eye problems in the
country. He was the one who established the very first Philippine eye
hospital to help Filipinos get quality eye care. His corneal dissector is one
of the essential innovations, revolutionizing corneal transplant surgery.

A cornea transplant is an operation to replace part of the cornea

with corneal tissue from a donor. This operation is sometimes called
keratoplasty. The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped surface of the
eye. Light enters the eye through the cornea. It plays a large role in the
eye's ability to see clearly. A cornea transplant is most often used to
restore vision to a person with a damaged cornea.

GAVINO TRONO
(Field of Specialization: Marine Biology)
● Filipino Biologist
● He is the “FATHER OF
KAPPAPHYCUS FARMING”
● Known for Seaweed Farming
● Awarded as “National Scientist of
the Philippines”
● He also established the largest
phycological herbarium in the
country – the G.T. Velasquez
Herbarium in the University of the
Philippines Diliman’s Marine
Science Institute and authored
two-volume books on Field Guide
and Atlas of the Seaweed
Resources of the Philippines, considered as the most authoritative
books in the country on the seaweed flora.
 Just like Gomez, Gavino also specializes in Marine Biology. He was
even known as the "Father of Seaweed Diversity" or the "Father of
Kappaphycus Farming." So, it is because he made a significant
contribution to tropical marine psychology through his thorough research
of seaweed biodiversity. Through his research, we can increase our
knowledge of the diversity of seaweed plants all over Asia and their role in
the marine ecosystem.

GREGORIO VELASQUEZ
(Field of Specialization: Phycology)
● He made the first intensive
study of the local Myxophyceae or also
known as the Blue-Green Algae and
received local and international
recognition.

When we talk about psychology

in the country, one name is linked to it,
and it is Gregorio Velasquez. He is
one of the many Filipinos who
received the title of National Scientist
due to his remarkable contributions to
the field of Science. Regarding his
research, Velasquez extensively
focuses on marine algae, where he has devised a way to tell which is
which through their unique characteristics.

FRANCISCO FRONDA
(Field of Specialization: Animal Husbandry)
● Contributed immensely to the
development of the poultry industry
not only in the Philippines but in
Asia Region as well.
● He was cited as the “Father of
Poultry Science in the Philippines”
by the Philippine Association of
Animal Science in 1980. Also, cited
as the “Father of Thai Poultry
Industry” honor and presented by
 Her Royal Highness, the Crown Princess of Thailand in 1982.
● Has no less than 500 scientific articles of great value in the
development of poultry and livestock industry.

Fronda has no less than 500 scientific articles of great value in the
development of the poultry and livestock industry. He also authored a
textbook in Poultry Science Production for students in agriculture and
co-authored a series of books entitled " Let Us Raise Series" for
secondary and elementary pupils.

Dr. Fronda worked extensively on Cantonese, a breed of chicken

imported from Canton, China. For 15 years, he culled, selected and bred
the Cantonese to improve the breed. He succeeded in developing the
chickens, but the line was not continued since all the fowls were
consumed due to famine during World War II.

Science Education in the Philippines

Keeping up with the rapid advancement of science and technology

all over the world is crucial. Advancement nowadays cannot be limited to
acquiring advanced facilities and technologies but more to the acquisition
and enhancement of knowledge and skills essential in meeting the
demands of the highly competitive and scientific-based society.

In the Philippines and around the world, science and

technology-based and a knowledge-based economy are common
concerns. Living in such an environment requires expectations and skills
to survive. The effort of investing in science, technology, and innovation
shall be supported and sustained through breaking resource gaps,
specifically in the education sector.

In all fairness to the Philippine government, efforts to improve quality

education have always been part of its plan of action. The Department of
Education, through the National Education for All Committee (NEC),
engaged in benchmarking strategy with the Southeast Asian Ministers of
Education Organization Regional Center for Education Innovation and
Technology (SEAMEO INNOTECH). The said undertaking stated in
February 2011 is to secure affirmation of basic education reforms
(curriculum structures and contents) towards meeting the demands of the
21st century.
 Science education deals with the teaching and learning of science
and helping the public develop science 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.

Basic Education
Science education helps students learn important concepts and facts
that are related to everyday life including important skills such as process
skills, critical thinking skills, and life skills that are needed in coping with
daily life activities (Chaille & Britain, 2002).
Science education also develops positive attitudes such as a love for
knowledge, passion for innovative things, curiosity to study nature, and
creativity (Lind, 1997).
Science education will develop a strong foundation for studying
science and for considering science-related careers in the future. This is
an investment for the country to develop a scientifically cultured and
literate citizenry.

Tertiary Education
Deals with developing students’ understanding and appreciation of
scientific ideas and scientific works. This is done through offering basic
science courses in the General Education curriculum. It also 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.

Importance of Science Education

Science education is justified by the vast amount of scientific
knowledge developed in this area that prepares citizens in a scientifically
and technologically driven world.
Science education provides skills and knowledge that are necessary
for a person to live in what Knight (1986) describes as the age of science
and to develop a citizenry that will meet the goals of science in society
(Tilghman, 2005).

SELECTED INDIGENOUS SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY
 Indigenous knowledge is one that is embedded in the cultural
traditions of regional, indigenous, or local communities. This knowledge
system is passed on orally and is evident in their stories, poems, and
songs. It connotes traditional and non-scientific knowledge including
superstitious beliefs and practices which may be products of human
imagination. However, these products may also become the foundation of
people’s creativity, originality, and inventiveness.

1. Embedded in the daily life experience of young children as they grow

up.
2. Practiced by the members of the community
3. Parents and other folks served as the first teachers and their methods
of teaching are very effective in transmitting cultural knowledge in the
minds of the children.
4. Lessons they learned are intimately interwoven with their culture and
the environment
5. Lessons consist of good values and life stories of people on their daily
struggles.
6. Views about nature and their reflections on their experiences in daily life
are evident in their stories, poems and songs.

INDIGENOUS SCIENCE

Indigenous science is a product of indigenous knowledge perfected

by people through life experiences. It is the use of science process skills
guided by community culture and values composed of
traditional/indigenous knowledge. These cultural beliefs therefore can be a
good foundation for developing positive values toward learning and doing
science and in bringing science to a personal level. Indigenous science is
composed of traditional knowledge that uses science process skills and is
guided by community values and culture.

INDIGENOUS TECHNOLOGY
Indigenous technologies, on the other hand, are processes or products
resulting from studying indigenous science. It is designed and fabricated
based on the culture, tradition and needs of a people and which is
adopted for use in the environment of those people.

While some indigenous sciences and technologies are already obsolete,

their importance lies in that they helped early communities in
understanding the natural environment and in coping with their everyday
lives. More so, these are part of our rich and unique cultural heritage.
INDIGENOUS SCIENCE
A. Herbal Medicine and Traditional Health Practices
Years before the arrival of the Spaniards in the Philippines, the use of
medicinal plants was the common way of treating ailments and there were
several books that compiled these medicinal plants. Since ancient times
up to this day, medicinal plants have been used for treatment in most
countries.

In fact, the Department of Health approved 10 medicinal plants to prevent

and treat certain diseases.

1. Lagundi (Vitexnegundo) – Cough and asthma

2. Sambong (Blumeabalsamifera L.) – Anti-urolithiasis (kidney stones)
3. Ampalaya (Momordicacharantia L.) – Lowering of blood sugar and
anti-diabetes
4. Garlic (Allium sativum) – Anti-cholesterol
5. Guava (Psidiumguajava) – Oral/skin antiseptic
6. Tsaang-gubat (Carmona cetusa) – Mouthwash
7. Yerba-Buena (Menthaarvensis) – Analgesic or anti-pyretic
8. Niyug-niyogan (Quisaualisindica) – Anti-helminthic
9. Acapulco (Cassia alata) – Antifungal
10. Ulasimang-bato (Peperomiapellucida)- Anti-hyperurisemia

Thanks to our ancestors who carefully observed and utilized these

plants. Truly, the development of modern medicine is based on the
practices of plant-based traditional medicine, a hundred of years of belief
and observation.

We also have a long list of traditional health practices that some of

us still perform up to this day. We have hilot to treat sprains and fractures,
tawas to determine the cause and nature of sudden illnesses through the
use of potassium alum, and many more. One prominent traditional
practice is tuli. It was found out that this practice is not religious in origin. It
precedes the Spanish colonial era and was done to celebrate a boy’s
coming of age.

B. Food Preservation

Ages-old food preservation techniques include drying,smoking, cooling,

freezing, fermenting, salting,pickling, and canning. Drying and smoking
are one of the most ancient methods of food preservation. It works
because it removes much of the food's water and therefore prevent
microbial activity as we all know now

C. Classifying Soils
One of the indigenous practices of early Filipinos is classifying soils
for planting. Criteria used by early Filipino farmers in soil classification are
their experiences supported by their ability to observe attributes of soil
resource. This is their way to identify the best use, and appropriate
management practices of the soil resource.
D. Weather Observations
Ancient people incorporate animal behavior with weather conditions and
seasons. Here in the Philippines, it was then believed that when moths fly
at night, it is a sign that it will rain. Also, if a chicken walks in the rain, the
rain will stop. There is a belief that if you think that it will rain you just need
to offer rice and egg so that rain will stop or will not happen in that day.
These have no scientific basis. This may be based on coincidence to the
point that they have associated it to weather conditions.
HERE ARE SOME OTHER EXAMPLE OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE
AND SCIENCE:

● Knowledge in observing animal behavior to predict weather

conditions and seasons
● Traditional health habits practices
● Preservation and selection of good seeds for planting
● Building irrigation system
● Classifying different types of soil for planting
● Making wines and juices from fruits
● Local methods of growing vegetables in the yard
● Indigenous methods of calculating and estimating
● Knowledge on mineral resources found in the community
● Making products such as vinegar, cheese and nata de coco.

EXAMPLES OF INDIGENOUS TECHNOLOGY

A. Yoyo
A toy consisting an axle connected to two disks and a string looped
around the axle.-

It was an invention by Pedro Flores, a

Filipino undergraduate law student,
but even if the inventor was Filipino, it
was mass produced in America.
While he was working as a porter in a
Santa Monica, California hotel, he
demonstrated various yo-yo tricks to
the guests. Flores made a key
innovation in the yo-yo.

This toy had a significant role in the

Spanish era. It wasn’t just a toy to
play around and have fun, but it was
actually used by our brave men to
fight against intruders and Spaniards
before.

B. ERYTHROMYCIN

Abelardo Aguilar, a Scientist from the Philippines discovered Erythromycin

in 1949. Dr. Abelardo was testing samples of soils from his backyard and
isolated micro-organisms – a bacteria that lead to the development of the
Antibiotic called Erythromycin.
This antibiotic produced by the Streptomyces erythreus found in the soil
that used to treat and prevent a wide range of infection. He sent it this to
his employer in the U.S. to separate the strain but unfortunately did not get
the credit for the discovery.

C. PATIS OR FISH SAUCE

Ruperta David, who was

popularly known as Aling
Tentay was the woman
behind the discovery of
this condiment.

It all started when her

family began a dried fish
business shortly after the
war. She accidentally
discovered it in the
1940s when she noticed
that some of the salted
fish she stored in a jar
turned into fragments then turned into liquid and became the patis we all
know today.

It officially registered in 1949 as Tentay Food and Sauces.

D. BANANA CATSUP

Created by Maria Orosa y

Ylagan-Orosa was also the
brain behind the creation of
other food products like
desiccated powdered form of calamansi called calamansi nip and
powdered preparation of soya beans called soya-lac which was used to
save the lives of many prisoners held by Japanese during World War.

As a food scientist, she sought to reduce the Philippines' dependence on

imported food, pioneering new ways to use local products and that was
before she became a war hero.

E. ANTICANCER CREAM

Rolando de la Cruz created the anticancer cream from cashew nuts

and other local herbs to treat basal skin carcinoma.

He called this cream DeBCC anticancer cream.

He won several awards because of this invention and the famous one
was the gold medal award in the International Investors’ Forum in
November 2005.

F. 16-bit MICROCHIP

Diosdado Banatao developed

the first single-chip graphical user
interface accelerator that made
computers work a lot faster.

This chip allows the computer user

to make graphical presentation
using graphics for command. The data processing is made much quicker
using small chip instead of large board.

He also co-founded Mostron, Chips and Technologies, and S3 Graphics.