From the beginning of time, man has strived to improve his way and quality of

life. The caveman discovered how to make and use tools, develop a logical sequence
for activities, and evolved processes that added value to his life. The entire use and
application of knowledge, skills, tools and materials constitutes what describe today as
“technology.”

It is a well establish fact that science and technology impacts all aspects of our
lives as well as the planet we live on. The science and technology alter our way of living
it induced changes and for the most part benefited mankind although there are cases
where human abused its capabilities. Nevertheless, in today’s world the role of science
and technology is indispensable. We need science and technology in every sphere of
our life. In fact, without the integration of science and technology, we cannot imagine
our life per se.

Science and technology capabilities are fundamental for social and economic
progress in developing countries; it holds the key to the progress and development of a
state. India, South Korea, and Taiwan are some of the developing countries in the
region who achieved much through science and technology. As we can see, the
economic growth of a state is driven by science and technology, so it is extremely
important to give emphasis and significance particularly in research and development.

Recently, the Philippines ranked 73rd out of 128 economies in terms of Science
and Technology Innovation (STI) index, citing the country’s strength in research and
commercialization of science and technology ideas. The report also said that 60
percent of companies in the country offer training to improve the technical skills of their
employees. However, a study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies
highlighted the weak ties between innovation-driven firms and the government, and
identified the country’s low expenditure in research and development. This emanates
from the fact that science and technology policies in our country is not properly
implemented and do not receive appropriate attention. Here in the Philippines we
have an institution that’s in charge in providing central direction, leadership, and
coordination of all scientific and technological activities, and formulates policies,
programs and projects to support national development the Department of Science
and Technology or DOST. Some of the science and technology policies spearheaded
by the DOST are R.A No. 10612: Fast-tracked S&T Scholarship Act of 2013 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, R. A
No. 8439 Magna Carta for Scientists, Engineers, Researchers and other S&T personnel in
the government, R. A No. 10055: Philippine Technology Transfer Act of 2009 an act
providing the framework and support system for the ownership, management, use, and
commercialization of intellectual property generated from research and development
funded by government and for other purposes, and R. A No. 2067: Science Act of 1958
an act to integrate, coordinate, and intensify scientific and technological research and
development and to foster invention; to provide funds therefore; and for other
purposes. We have much of these policies yet it seems that we don’t feel it, I personally
was surprise knowing that we have such S&T policies. As a graduate of Special Science
Class a secondary curriculum under Deped Order 54, S. 1996, I’ve experienced this
shortcomings the lack of funding, laboratory and classroom facilities. Sadly, I, my
classmates and our teacher will look for schools that have laboratories where we can
conduct our researches and investigatory projects. Every time we have science related
events and contests like YES-O Camp, Research Forum, etc., we don’t receive any
support from the government and authorities we would really be happy and
encouraged if they can provide us prizes, tents and foods or just a well-conditioned
room where we can defend our researches and equipment we can use in our defense.
I feel quietly proud that I survived that situation and accomplished my own applied
science research.

As students, the future scientists, technologists and engineers of our country we

find ourselves with unqualified teachers, inadequate books, shabby to no laboratory,
and high cost of education. Scientists, technologists and students effort to attain
sustainable development is thwarted by the lack of budget and genuine government
support. It is likewise essential to realize that improving the state of S&T in the country
thus obtaining national prosperity and progress can be achieved when the both the
government and the people linked efforts.