GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The eighteen (18) attached agencies, grouped into sectors with their mandates are as follows:

A. Sectoral Planning Councils (3)

1. Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development
(PCIEERD) – responsible for formulating strategies, policies, plans, programs and projects for advanced
S&T, industry and energy sector. It develops and implements programs for the optimal utilization,
transfer, and commercialization of technologies and other research outputs.
2. Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development
(PCAARRD) – Formulate policies, plans, programs, projects, and strategies for Science and
Technology (S&T) development in the agriculture, forestry, aquatic and natural resources sectors;
Program and allocate government and external funds generated for R&D efforts in the agriculture,
forestry, marine and natural resources sectors; Monitor R&D projects; and generate external funds for
its R&D activities.
3. Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) – leads, directs and coordinates S &
T activities in the health sciences so as to improve the health and nutritional status of every Filipino.

B. Research and Development Institutes (7)

4. Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) – conducts scientific research and development in
the advanced fields of studies such as Microelectronics and Information Technology.
5. Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) – conducts research defining the citizenry’s nutritional
status, with reference particularly to the malnutrition problem, its causes and effects, and identifies
alternative solutions; develops and recommends policy options, strategies, programs and projects,
which address the malnutrition problem for implementation by the appropriate agencies; and
disseminates research findings and recommendations to the relevant end-users.
6. Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) – conducts applied Research and
Development (R & D) on wood and non-wood forest products to generate information and technology
which can improve the utility value of wood and other forest products; transfers technologies; and,
provides technical services and training.
7. Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) – undertakes applied research to develop
technologies and technological innovations in the fields of industrial manufacturing, mineral processing
and energy; undertakes the transfer of research results directly to end-users or preferably via linkage
units of other government agencies; undertakes technical services such as, but not limited to,
standards, analytical and calibrations services mandated by law or as needed by the industry; conducts
training and provides technical advisory and consultancy services to industry clientele and end-users.
8. Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) – provides both government and private
sectors in the metals and engineering industry with professional management and technical expertise
on training of engineers and technicians, information exchange, trade accreditation services, quality
control and testing of metal products, research and development and business economics advisory
services.
9. Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) – conducts research and development on the application
of radioisotopes and nuclear energy; undertakes transfer of research results to end-users; operates and
maintains nuclear research reactors and other radiation facilities; licenses and regulates nuclear and
radioactive substances.
10. Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) – conducts applied research and development of the textile
industry; undertakes the transfer of completed researches to end-users of via linkage units of other
government agencies; and undertakes technical services and provides training services.
C. Scientific and Technological Services (6)

11. Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) – provides
protection against natural calamities and utilizes scientific knowledge as an effective instrument to
ensure the safety, well-being and economic security of all the peoples.
12. Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) – predicts the occurrence of volcanic
eruptions and earthquakes and their geotectonic phenomena; determines how eruptions and
earthquakes occur and the areas likely to be affected; exploits the positive aspects of volcanoes and
volcanic terrain in furtherance of the socio-economic development efforts of the government; generates
sufficient data for forecasting of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes; formulates appropriate disaster
preparedness plans; and mitigate hazards of volcanic activities through appropriate detection, forecast
and warning systems.
13. Science and Technology Information Institute (STII) – establishes and develops science and technology
databank and library, disseminates science and technology information, and undertakes trainings on
information of science and technology.
14. Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) – serves as the implementing arm of the DOST
in promoting the commercialization of technologies and in marketing the services of the other operating
units of the Department.
15. Philippine Science High School (PSHS) – offers on a free scholarship basis a secondary course with
special emphasis on subjects pertaining to the sciences with the end in view of preparing its students for
a science career.
16. Science Education Institute (SEI) – accomplishes the task of administering scholarships, awards and
grants in Science & Technology (S & T), and formulating plans for the promotion, development and
improvement of S & T education and training in order to develop a critical mass of highly trained S & T
manpower.

D. Collegial and Scientific Bodies (2)

17. National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) – provides meaningful incentives to those
engaged in scientific and technological research, as well as gives recognition to outstanding
achievements in technology and the sciences; advises the President, Cabinet and Congress on matters
related to S & T; and embarks on programs traditionally and internationally expected of a national
academy of science.
18. National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) – promotes and supports fundamental or basic
research for the continuing improvement of the research capability of individual or group scientists;
fosters linkages with local and international scientific organizations for enhanced cooperation in the
development and sharing of scientific information; provides advice on problems and issues of national
interest; and promotes scientific and technological culture to all sectors of society.

NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF THE PHILIPPINES

The National Research Council of the Philippines was created on December 8, 1933 by virtue of ACT 4120, to
 Promote and support the fundamental or basic research for the continuing improvement of the research
capability of individual or group scientists;
 Foster linkages with local and international scientific organizations for enhanced cooperation in the
development and sharing of scientific information;
 Provide advice on problems and issues of national interests;
 Promote the scientific and technological culture to all sectors of the society.
What do they do?

Funding Service for Basic Research

provides grants-in-aid for researches which would hone the research expertise of the individual scientist and
his/her staff;

Maintain Pool of Expertise

Serves, through its membership, as a repository of scientific expertise in all branches, acting as a representative
multi-disciplinary community;

Policy Advisory
Cooperates in scientific ventures with national and international agencies to address problems and issues of
national consequences; conduct evaluative review enabling scientists and researchers to expound on their works
while interacting with their peers for their growth and maturity as professionals; adopts an enlightened and active
advocacy role in policy evaluation and formulation;

Publications and Library

Publishes the promising research outputs through NRCP Research Journal and maintains scientific library.

Linkages and Collaboration

Enhances and strengthens linkages among local, and international research institutions for closer cooperation
and sharing of information and expertise for national development; and

Strengthening Information Dissemination through Outreach Program

Disseminates popularized S&T information materials which demonstrate the suitability of technological
innovations under local conditions, further strengthening the S&T information outreach program in the country.

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) STRAND

The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Strand (STEM) in the Philippines is a specialized
educational track that focuses on preparing students for future careers in these fields. It aims to equip students
with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to excel in science and technology-related fields.
In recent years, the demand for STEM professionals has increased significantly in the Philippines. As such, many
schools across the country have started offering STEM as an educational track, with the government actively
promoting it as a priority area of education. In this article, we will delve into the STEM strand in the Philippines,
its objectives, and its significance.

Objectives of STEM Strand

The STEM strand aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in STEM fields. It
focuses on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are essential in these fields.
Moreover, the STEM strand also aims to prepare students for college and future careers in STEM.

Significance of STEM Strand

STEM education is vital for the economic development of the Philippines. The government recognizes this, and
as such, it has implemented policies to promote STEM education. According to the Department of Education, the
STEM strand is a priority area of education because it is crucial for the country’s economic growth and
development.
STEM graduates are in high demand in the Philippines, particularly in fields such as engineering, IT, and science.
A recent report by the Department of Labor and Employment revealed that STEM-related jobs are among the
highest-paying jobs in the country, with salaries ranging from PHP 30,000 to PHP 80,000 per month.

Curriculum of STEM Strand

The curriculum of the STEM strand is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics. It covers a wide range of topics, including biology, physics, chemistry,
computer science, and mathematics. The curriculum also includes hands-on activities, laboratory experiments,
and research projects to help students develop practical skills.
In addition, the STEM strand also emphasizes the importance of communication skills, teamwork, and leadership
skills. These skills are essential for success in STEM fields, as they enable students to work effectively in teams
and communicate complex ideas and concepts to others.

Career Opportunities for STEM Graduates

STEM graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in the Philippines. The most in-demand careers for
STEM graduates include engineering, information technology, science, mathematics, and research. These fields
offer excellent job opportunities, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
Moreover, the demand for STEM professionals is expected to increase in the coming years, as the Philippines
continues to shift towards a knowledge-based economy. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, the
demand for STEM professionals in the Philippines is expected to grow by 21% in the next five years.

Challenges in Implementing STEM Strand

While the STEM strand has significant potential for the Philippines, its implementation comes with its challenges.
One of the main challenges is the lack of qualified teachers and educators who are trained to teach STEM
subjects. Many schools struggle to find qualified teachers who have the necessary knowledge and experience to
teach STEM subjects effectively.
Another challenge is the lack of funding and resources. Many schools struggle to provide the necessary
equipment and materials to support STEM education. This can limit students’ opportunities to participate in
hands-on activities, laboratory experiments, and research projects, which are essential components of STEM
education.

In conclusion, the STEM strand in the Philippines is a critical area of education that aims to prepare students for
future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It provides students with a solid foundation
in these fields and develops the necessary skills to succeed in STEM-related careers.
While the STEM strand faces some challenges in its implementation, its significance for the economic
development of the Philippines cannot be overstated. The demand for STEM professionals is increasing, and the
government is committed to promoting STEM education to meet this demand. However, addressing the
challenges facing the STEM strand will require a collaborative effort from educators, policymakers, and the
private sector.
As a student, if you are interested in pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, the
STEM strand is an excellent option to consider. It provides you with a strong foundation in these fields, practical
skills, and the opportunity to explore various career paths.
With the increasing demand for STEM professionals in the Philippines, a career in these fields can offer excellent
job prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for growth and development.
The STEM strand in the Philippines is an important educational track that is crucial for the country’s economic
growth and development. Its curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and
experience to succeed in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related fields. While its
implementation comes with its challenges, the government and educators must work together to overcome these
challenges and promote STEM education in the country.