Science and Technology and Nation-Building, Essay Example

Science plays a pivotal role in technology. The combination of science and technology (S&T) results in the development of new knowledge used to improve human life. The Philippines constitution promotes science and technology because it promotes nation-building. Accordingly, I will state the provisions of the 1997 Philippine constitution to S&T, the importance of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and its institutes, and the contribution of the DOST Harmonized Agenda to the attainment of middle-class aspirations as mentioned in AmBisyon Natin 2040 and targets of the Philippines Development Plan 2017-2022 and five members of the National Scientist and their contribution to S&T in the country.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution provides distinct provisions. It provides that the state shall prioritize research and Development (R&D), invention, innovation and effective implementation to aid in the growth of independent scientific and technological abilities and facilitate their application to the country’s productive systems and national life (GVOPH). Therefore, the state shall provide incentives and tax deductions to promote participation in scientific programs. Further, the government shall control technology adaptation from all sources that benefit the state (GVOPH). These constitutional provisions have driven the country toward local inventions and scientific success to acquire national growth.

DOST and its institutes play a critical role in Philippine nation-building. First, they influence domestic scientific and high-tech achievement. For instance, the government facilitates technological development through the provision of technological training. Second, they support the development of local ability to attain technological self-reliance (DOST). For instance, the government offers S&T scholarships to fund S&T education to facilitate national technological growth. Third, they invigorate individualized involvement in R&D. For instance, the government offers incentives and tax deductions to attract the private sector to engage in R&D. Therefore, DOST encourages technological growth, which leads to nation-building.

The DOST’s Harmonized National R&D Agenda will facilitate the accomplishment of middle-class aspirations. The AmBisyon Natin 2040 aspires to eradicate poverty through the promotion of a middle-class society. On the other hand, the 2017-2022 Philippine development plan aims to lay a foundation of growth, trust, and resilience to ensure a globally competitive economy. DOST Harmonized Agenda contributes to the achievement of middle-class aspirations through R&D to address challenges in food and nutrition, transport and mobility and national and human security (DOST). For instance, the government has a national security policy to protect its citizens, which promotes overall business growth. Further, it can contribute to the aspiration through R&D to acquire and effectively manage potential resources such as energy sources and biodiversity (DOST). For example, the management of energy sources such as gas and natural gas will fuel the development of industries, which will create employment, improving the citizens’ standards of living. The DOST’s Harmonized National R&D Agenda is, therefore, crucial for economic growth.

The Order of the National Scientist Consists of various members with distinct contributions to S&T in the Philippines. First, Benito S. Vergara was awarded in 2001 for their contribution to the plant physiology of rice science and technology. Second, Ricardo M. Lantican was awarded in 2005 as a major contributor in the field of plant breeding (GOVPH). He identified the role of legumes as a major source of protein in the citizens’ diet. Third, Lourdes J. Cruz was awarded in 2006 for R&D in the field of marine biology (GOVPH). He managed to identify the effects of toxic peptides from the venom of Conus marine snails. Fourth, Biencenido F. Nebros was awarded in 2011 for participation in the field of mathematics. Lastly, Angel C. Barba was recognized in 2014 for his contribution to biological sciences (GOVPH). He applied various biological principles that helped farmers, especially during the induction of flowering. Overly, these scientists participated in the country’s S&T growth.

In conclusion, the 1987 constitution on R&D provides that the state shall promote innovation to ensure scientific and technological self-reliance. Further, the DOST’s Harmonized National R&D Agenda addresses problems in food and nutrition, security and management of resources to facilitate the achievement of the AmBisyon Natin 2040 and 2017-2022 Philippine development plan. Ultimately, S&T is vital for a country to thrive.  

Works Cited

Department of Science and Technology. DOST to lead the crafting of harmonized national R7D Agenda. https://www.dost.gov.ph/knowledge-resources/news/48-2017-news/1127-dost-to-lead-the-crafting-of-harmonized-national-r-d-agenda.html

Department of Science and Technology. The DOST in brief, n.d. https://www.dost.gov.ph/transparency/10-transparency/about-dost/9-the-dost-in-brief.html

GVOPH. List of National Scientists of the Philippines, n.d. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/lists/national-scientists-of-the-philippines/

GVOPH. The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of Philippines- Article XIV, n.d. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/constitutions/the-1987-constitution-of-the-republic-of-the-philippines/the-1987-constitution-of-the-republic-of-the-philippines-article-xiv/#:~:text=Science%20and%20technology%20are%20essential,education%2C%20training%2C%20and%20services.