Chapter 8: THE AGE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

The Industrial Revolution, which happened 1700s, triggered the beginning of

technological innovations, which until the present is still evolving. The developments in
communication technology have facilitated instantaneous connection between people
from different geographical locations. The rise of Information Communication
Technology (ICT) provided greater opportunities for people and countries to connect and
market themselves greater economic prosperity. Barriers to communication between people
from varied locations have been removed through the World Wide Web and the Internet.

What is Information Technology?

Information is a processed data with a meaning. It is organized and has a usefull
interpretation of data. On the other hand technology has to do with tools, machines, and
systems to apply change in a human-made environment. This implies that Information
Technology (IT) is the transmission of information requiring the uses of systems
specifically computers, and telecommunications, for storing, retrieving and sending
information.

The 21st century is characterized by the application advancement in information

technology, which has become an integral part of human life. The Information Technology
Association of America defined information Technology as " study, design, development,
application, implementation, support or management of computer-based information
systems".

Information communication technology (ICT) is also known as information

technology (IT) which denotes the convergence of telecommunication networks with
computer networks through a link system later known as fiber optics. The merging of the
telephone service with the computer network of Internet utilized cabling and signal
distribution.

ICT covers storage, retrieval, manipulation and transmission of information in a

digital form. This happens through the use desktops, emails, podcast, vodcast, cloud storage
and the like. Skills Framework for the Information Age is a source for describing and
managing skills needed for ICT professionals especially at this time when Business Process
Outsourcing companies are very much in need of IT professionals to serve clients across the
globe.

Developments in Information Communication Technology (ICT)

The advancement and application of Information Communication

Technology (ICT) is changing. It is evident at this point that every organization and
enterprise needs efficient IT systems to carry out daily tasks. A computer network that is
secured and is competently connected is a requirement to carry out productive operations.

1. Cloud Computing
One of the most innovative terms in information technology, clouding computing is
defined as the usage of computing services through a software as well as hardware . It is
a service over a network which is the Internet.

Cloud computing provides benefits to its users such that it reduces the IT
infrastructure cost of the company, it promotes the concept of virtualization which
enables server and storage device to be used within the organization and finally, it
 allows the maintenance of software and hardware a lot easier as no installation is
required.

However, there are some issues concerning cloud computing which has to do with
privacy, compliance, security, legal, abuse. IT governance and the like.

2. Mobile Application
A trend within information technology is the use of mobile applications which are
actually software applications on smart phones, androids and the like. Mobile
application or mobile app is a complete success since its introduction, in the
commercial market. Apps are designed to run on smartphones, tablets and other mobile
devices. They are also available for download from selected mobile operating systems.
Some of the mobile apps are available free for a certain amount to cover download cost.
The app distributor and the app developer share the income from the payments.

3. User Interfaces
User interface has undergone a revolution since introduction of touch screen. The
touch screen capability has revolutionized way end users interact with application Touch
screen enables the user to directly interact with whe is displayed and removes any
intermediate hand-held device like the mouse. Touch screen capability is utilized in smart
phones, tablet, information kiosks and other information appliances.

4. Analytics
The field of analytics has greatly progressed over the years. It is a process which
helps in discovering the informational patterns within a data. The field of analytics is a
combination of statistics, computer programming and operations research.

In area of data analytics, predictive analytics and social analytics, it is notable

how analytics is used. Hence, data analytics can be used to support decision-making
process as it converts raw data into meaningful information. On the other hand,
predictive analytics is used to forecast events based on current and historical information
while social media analytics as a tool is for companies to understand and accommodate
customer needs and requirements. The field of information technology has shown great
advancement leading to immense changes in the last decade. Hence, from the emerging
trend, it is stated that analytics has a great impact on business to serve their customers
well.

The Significant Impact of Information Technology

The past decades have seen the grandiose revolution in the realm of computing and
communication. All indicators show that technology and the use of information technology
will continue to progress. The increase in the acquisition and new formation technologies is
brought about by the declining cost of communications as a result of rapid technological
innovations and increased competitiveness of networks and companies producing hand held
devices. Electronic commerce or E-commerce is one of the most notable developments
in the Internet. It is a new way of conducting business through the World Wide Web where
buyers and sellers meet and do business. It greatly influences financial and retail trade.
Technology has also expanded to education as open universities and distance learning is
widely offered now by several colleges and universities through the use of the Learning
Management Systems (LMS). Such milestones simply imply the seamless application of
information and communication technology along the entire value chain of enterprise
through the Internet.

The Rise of E-Commerce

Information technology defies time and space which directly affects the exertion of
effort as it reduces travel time and distance. Varied industries have realized that workers
may not necessarily come from a single location such as working in an office-based
environment. For instance, is the establishment of BPOs or Business Process
Outsourcing companies, which are found in the Philippines, India, Cambodia
Singapore, Thailand and many other countries across the globe. Firms opted to hire
their workers and outsource them from other countries specifically in Asia where salary rate
is a lot more affordable. Reseller and white label companies from the US, United Kingdom
and Australia hire home-based or remote web developers as well as digital marketing
specialists from the Philippines. They work on either a day or night shift to comply with the
schedule of foreign clients.

Notably, firms can now outsource their manufacturing to other nations such as in the
case of industrial and economic zones operating in the Philippines and rely on
telecommunications to keep production, distribution and marketing attuned. This has
demanded an influx of workers with specific skills. Thus, technology has even refined
division of labor and accurate coordination entirely through computer networks and
communication technologies.

A good example of this is the Singapore-based Lazada.com that sells and conducts
business entirely through the Web-based E-commerce site. Payments can be done through
Dragon Pay, credit or debit cards or through payment centers, which are operating online.
The result is remarkable through the distribution channel that is cost-efficient and provides
buyers and consumers lower prices for the commodities being sold online. The key areas of
cost reduction when carrying out a sale via electronic commerce rather than in a traditional
store involving physical establishment, order placement and execution, customer support,
staffing, inventory carrying, and distribution. It is definitely cost-effective to maintain a
virtual store than a physical one as it is always open and can be accessed by millions of
prospective clients across the globe. With the Internet, e-commerce is rapidly expanding into
a fast-moving, open global market with an ever-increasing number of participants.

The open and global nature of e-commerce is likely to increase market size and
change market structure, in terms of both the number and size of players and the way in
which players compete on international markets. Digitized goods also known as electric
goods or e-goods include e-books, digital images, music files, software, manuals are
electronically stored. These files can cross borders in real time and consumers can shop 24
hours a day, seven days a week. And in the midst of stiff market competition, firms are
searching for strategies to be competitive online by improving their online shops' User
Interface (UI) as well as User Experience (UX).

Remote Work
Computers and communication technologies complement the traditional telephones.
It is a way to allow individuals to communicate with one another in ways that do not
require f2f interaction.

These technologies utilize communication infrastructures that are both global and up
24/7. Interaction between superiors and subordinates will become stiff because of control
issues raised by the use of computerized monitoring systems such as the software ‘Time
Doctor’ which records every worker online, but on the other hand, the use of e-mail will
lower the barriers to communications across different status levels, resulting in more
uninhibited communications between supervisor and subordinates.

The importance of distance is reduced by computers and communication

technologies. Telecommuting are now an accepted practice in the world of work. Workers
can do most of their work at home rather than in a centralized workplace if they opt to work
home based. Technology has evidently changed how people work. The gig-economy has also
changed how people work. More and more people are choosing to work as freelancers and
independent contractors in multiple jobs in different local and overseas jobs. Working remote
in virtual platforms has become attractive especially among millennials and this is being
noticed by companies and organizations worldwide.

Through these developments in the nature of job brought by information technology

working from home, telecommuting and working remote has remarkably reduced everyday
expenses and burnout considering that multiple jobs are available on flexible schedules.

Whilst remote jobs reduce, stress while increasing satisfaction, it can also speed up
work and productivity. However it must be understood that the changing environment has
also created new jobs that require new and progressive skills The convergence of media,
telecommunication and computing technologies is indeed creating a new workplace scenario
that every interested wage earner must adapt to.

Distance Education
Advancements in information technology have brought about the development of
CAI or computer-assisted-instruction. The same will complement traditional classroom
instruction. The teacher as the trainer and mentor motivates, encourages, evaluates and
helps in the learning of students. Though there is a need for face to face (f2f), the
integration of information technology improves productivity and enriches the learning
experience of students. Developing solutions to the given problems largely operates through
technology utilized in schools through virtual learning environments, simulations which are
available on the Internet and offers much convenience. E-mail, drop boxes, learning software
Learning Management Systems (LMS) and mobile applications simplify the learning process.
These educational technologies vastly simplify collaboration between students and teachers
and even between students themselves who are engaged in group workloads. Text can be
combined with audio, images and videos utilized through real time real time interactions
through Skype, face time, Zoom, Facebook-Messenger and other platforms. Distance
learning via the Internet and Learning Management Systems (LMS) can be very motivating.
This interactive learning strategy is net only innovative especially in the continuing
education programs a it is highly experiential and dynamic.

Consequently, the changes associated with these rapid technological advances in

education demand an upgrade of professional skills through the reinforcement of modern
existing systems of learning both in the public and private sectors. Educational technologies
must be utilized to respond to the needs of all learners.

Cyber Crimes
The increase in content presented in a digital form results in easier and cheaper
duplication and distribution by information. This is the case which book contents being copy-
pasted and even image properties which can easily be posted on the internet. These can all
be exposed online and be utilized by any individual for whatever intent they have. This
evidently violates intellectual property rights which is an issue being raised against the wide
use of information technology. It can reduce the incentives of creators, writers, authors,
distributors and publishers alike.

A vast array of questions is posed relating to intellectual property rights and

protection. Mechanisms to control this reality brought about the development of software
and applications that may prove that there was a scrupulous intent on the part of the
perpetrator. Such includes the anti-plagiarism tools and other measures to reduce if not
totally eradicate pirating of ideas. Censorship alone does not appear to be an efficient
solution. The dissemination of information to the consumers, readers and enthusiasts
through the World Wide Web or the Internet itself can somehow spread the idea that such
activity is actually a crime. Indeed the rapid increase in computing and communications
power has raised considerable concern about privacy both in the public and private sector.

No one is 100% aware of who currently collects data about individuals, how will this
be used, misused and shared Cybercrime is on the rise, identity thefts are proliferating.
Cybercrime is on the rise, identity thefts are proliferating. Phishing, according to Wikipedia,
is the attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames. passwords, and credit card
details often for malicious reasons, by disguising as a trustworthy entity in an electronic
communication. These concerns lower the consumers' trust in online institutions such as in
the use of e-banking. There is information overload and even 'fake news' which creates a
serious barrier to the freedom of information of individuals.

It is a popular wisdom that people today suffer information overload. A lot of the
information available on the Internet is incomplete and even incorrect. People spend more
and more of their time absorbing irrelevant information which are all available in the single
click on the computer. Indeed dependence on technology can bring risks. Flaws in the
technological infrastructure can cause hindrances to everyday functions such as the possible
presence of malwares and Trojans which can be injected onto critical institutions such as
bank data systems and government institutions. These are vital communications and
information processing services which can definitely cause widespread economic disruption.
An example of which was the global fear raised by the Y2K virus at the tum of the century
which made people and institutions panic as it has threatened all those who are hooked to
the use of computer technologies.

How do you protect yourself from Scams?

Have you been a victim of a scam? New types of scams have recently emerged and
you don't want to be lured into these and fall prey onto these scammers.

Recent findings have revealed how more than 50,000 individuals were reported
victimized by scammers. Thousands of dollars were taken from them and not a cent was
returned. Scams appear in varied forms, targeting entrepreneurs and customers using
sophisticated tools facilitated by online technology.

How do scammers operate?

Most common scams developed out of new techniques. Fraudsters are emerging and
they will lure you into providing them confidential information about you which may include
your email credentials, contact number and personal profile.

Some scammers will send you emails with links which if opened can hack confidential
data from your computer or handheld device. Anyone who opens the link falls as a helpless
victim to these scammers as they can now access your bank data, records, emails, assets
and almost all credentials that you are keeping online.
So what are these types of scams?
419 scam

This scam involves payments which fraudsters can demand from you while promising
a large sum of money from a proposed inheritance or winnings in the lottery. This can
happen once you receive an email promising a share from the lump sum amount to be
claimed if an upfront fee is sent. This 'to good to be true' promises is enough to make one
suspicious. The promise initially comes from a person of authority like an army general or a
prime minister which makes one believe without question. But these are all fake and
their main intent is to lure you to trust them until sou you'll not hear from them again.

SIM swap scam

In this scam, fraudsters are able to duplicate your SIM without your knowledge. They
will be able to receive OTP phone verifications, calls as well as receive notifications to
commit fraudulent activities.

Phishing scam
Phishing happens when fraudsters send you emails from a reliable institutions or
companies. The email will request you to click on an icon or a link which opens a fake
website which will then require details from you. Such details may include your credit card
details. The culprits can now use your card details to purchase online. It is important to
check if websites are secured to identify if these are legitimate websites.

Remote access takeover scam

This happens when you unintentionally allow your computer to be vulnerable to
'Remote Access Control. This happens through a software which can be downloaded from
your desktop. If you're so trusting then the scammer will be able to install some suspicious
software into your PC to do the trick. So if the urgent call from someone you don't know
sounds dubious then you have to deny them outright because they can easily access
sensitive information from you.

Vishing scam
The increase in mobile banking gave fraudsters greater opportunity to access bank
details from customers. Often the victim receives a call from a 'bank personnel 'asking
for OTP or One time Pin for verification. If you allow this, then you allow the scammer to
access your bank account.

So how can you avoid being victimized by these fraudsters?

1. Understanding how these criminal works is the best way protect yourself, your
identity and your property.
2. Never click on any link or attachments. Delete those messages even if you're so
curious to know what's in that message
3. Ignore scam phone messages or calls as you may be talking to the scammer and not
the authorized personnel
 4. Be cautious about those asking for your account numbers checking accounts as
crooks are so creative in getting hold of those access.
5. Remember the basic point that 'It you didn't enter the contest then it is improbable to
win it.
6. Never be an easy target to criminals. Scammers are always on the look for those who
are very trusting like those searching for jobs, for partners, for "easy' money.

Always be on your toes to identify scammers before you put your hard-earned money to
risk. Bank safely and do some research about those people, agents, institutions who are
claiming to protect your funds and your property. Do your research, be conscious about
website Security before you fall prey onto these crooks.

Working From Home: Essentials Tips

Work is no longer confined to the workplace
Whether this system is referred to as 'remote', 'work from home' (WFH), or 'home
based they are but online jobs which require an understanding of changes in your usual
routine. Now don't be afraid of learning something new as change at this time is truly
inevitable. Learn to adjust and you can be very productive even while working from home.

Consider these #WFH tips to enable you to adjust to the new

normal:
1. Since working remote means using technologies, then you need to master the use of
project management tools which assist individuals or teams to efficiently organize and
manage tasks and projects.

2. Learn to adapt to the use of computerized monitoring systems such as Time Tracking
productivity tools which measure or track your speed in accomplishing your tasks by
recording quantity of the mouse clicks and keyboard stroke you make. This software also
screenshots your work as well as creates online reports, and activity descriptions.

3. Master the use of "browser-based word processors'. This is an online 'word processor
which gives user the ability to create, edit, save, and access your documents from
anywhere. This software allows sharing of documents, tracking changes and even revert to
earlier versions while collaborating with team mates.

4. Learn to communicate using emails and team chats. Modern messaging apps have
resulted in more uninhibited communications between supervisors and subordinates which
results to better and collaborative output.

5. Do research on best practices from reliable Internet sources like forums, blogs and other
credible sites. This will surely provide you with the knowledge about the latest trends in your
field which surely you can apply in accomplishing your tasks.

6. Be sure to get a reliable and stable Internet provider. Your connection must be Ethernet,
wireless is a no-no in an online job. It is also probable that employers will require you to do
some 'speed test' to check if you can serve the purpose of working online. Your productivity
is highly reliant on this as well.

7. Prepare a quiet place that is conducive to work within the confines of your home. Most
employers require a workstation that is free from 'domestic distractions' like pets making
noises; children running around etc. A quiet, noise-free work environment is very necessary
especially during video calls.
8. Prepare your desktop or laptop with at least 1.6 GHz processor, 2 GB RAM and 40 GB free
space. A backup laptop is also important just in case problems arise (such as power outage).
A good headset is also essential for scheduled meetings.

Let's Wrap-up!
These technologies utilize communication infrastructures that are both global and up
24/7. Interaction between employers and employees has become stronger while it
minimized communication barriers. The uninhibited communication between supervisors
and subordinates resulted to better and collaborative output. And while stance is reduced by
computers and communication, workers can now perform most of their work at home rather
than in a centralized workplace and work on flexible schedules and even multi-task which
consequently reduces job stress and increased job satisfaction.
 Government Laws, Policies, Plans and
Projects Pertaining to Science and
Technology
Introduction

The role that science and technology has played in improving the life and
conditions of people in the world is vivid. Because the Philippines is a developing country,
the status of science and technology in our country is still below par, when compared with
countries like Japan and USA. There is a great need therefore to enact more laws and
strengthen existing ones to improve science and technology including research and
development in the country.

Science and Technology Environment From 1986 to 2016

President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino highlighted the importance of science and

technology in achieving economic progress. She helped establish the Department of
Science and Technology (DOST) which formulated the Science and Technology
Master Plan 1991-2000. At that time, the Philippines aimed to be a Newly
Industrialized Country (NIC)

Succeeding presidents have had their fair share of policies geared towards improving
the sector. President Fidel V. Ramos introduced laws on inventors' incentives and
science and technology scholarships while President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo
adopted policies focusing on a national innovation system and promoted
technological entrepreneurship under the Medium-Term Development Plan 2004-
2010.

The most recent National Science and Technology Plan 2002-2020 is largely
focused on building technological self-reliance. Meanwhile, the Harmonized Agenda for
science and technology presented to President Benigno Aquino in 2014 highlighted two
critical issues inclusive growth and disaster risk reduction.

Critical technologies to address these issues have been developed and this Include
LiDAR processing, remote sensing and microsatellites (DIWATA-1)

Government Policies and Laws Pertaining to Science and Technology

To improve and strengthen science and technology including research development,

it is necessary that government enact laws. Several laws have been enacted by Congress
since 1958 to present. They are as follows:

 R.A. 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
 R.A. 3589 An Act Amending RA 2067 Modifying the National Science
Development Board, National Institute of Science and Technology, and the Philippine
Atomic Energy Commission, Extending Tax Exemption, Privileges and Grants,
Requests and Donations for Scientific Purposes to Private Educational Institutions and
For Other Purposes enacted June 22, 1963.
  R.A. 5207-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, and assist the
development and use of atomic energy for peaceful purposes as a means to improve the
health and prosperity of the inhabitants of the Philippines and to contribute and accelerate
scientific, technological, agricultural, commercial, and industrial progress.

 Presidential Decree No. 49, s. 1972 established the Philippine Atmospheric,

Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA). Its function was to provide
environmental protection and to utilize scientific knowledge to ensure the safety of
the people.
 Presidential Decree No. 334, s. 1973 created the Philippine National Oil
Company to promote industrial and economic development through effective and
efficient use of energy resources.
 R.A. 8749 The Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 was enacted by Congress on June
23, 1999 to protect and preserve the environment and ensure the sustainable
development of its natural resources.
 R.A. 8792 An Act Providing for the Recognition and Use of Electronic Commercial
and Non-Commercial Transactions and Documents, Penalties for Unlawful Use Thereof
and For Other Purposes passed in June 15, 2000.

This Act aims to facilitate domestic and international dealings, transactions. assignment,
agreements, contracts and exchanges and storage of information through the utilization of
electronic, optical and similar medium mode, instrumentality and technology to recognize
the width and reliability of electronic documents related to such activities and to promote
the universal use of electronic transactions in the government and the general public.

 RA 8367 To Act of 2006 An Act to Direct the Use of Biofuels Establishing for this
Purpose the Biofuel Program, Appropriating Funds Therefore, And Fer Other Purposes.

This Act was enacted by Congress on June 12, 2007 to develop and utilize Indigenous and
sustainable sources, clean energy sources to reduce dependence on Imported oil.

 RA 9513 The Renewable Act of 2008 was passed by Congress to accelerate the
development of the country's renewable energy resources by providing fiscal and
non-fiscal incentives to private investors and equipment
manufacturers/fabricators/suppliers.
 RA 10175-Philippine Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 passed September 12.
2012. An Act Defining Cybercrime, Providing for the Prevention, Investigation,
Suppression and the Imposition of Penalties Therefore and For Other Purposes.
 RA. 10612-An Act Expanding the Coverage of the Science and Technology
Scholarship Program and Strengthening the Teaching of Science and Mathematics in
Secondary Schools and For Other Purposes.

This Act shall be known as the Fast-Tracked Science and Technology

Scholarship Act of 2018. It shall strengthen the country's Science and Technology
education by fast-tracking graduates in the science, mathematics, and engineering who
shall teach in secondary schools throughout the country. Towards this end, scholarships shall
be provided to finance the education of talented and deserving students in the third year of
college and pursuing 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 in their home
regions.

 RA. 10844 An Act Creating the Department of Information and Communication

Technology (DICT) which was signed into law on May 23, 2016.

In accordance with the law, the Department of Information and

Communications Technology (DICT) shall be the primary policy planning, coordination,
implementing, and administrative entity of the Executive branch of the government that will
plan, develop. and promote the national ICT development agenda.

Major Science and Technology Development Plans

 Science and Technology Master Plan (STMP). This plan was submitted to the
President in March 1989 by the presidential task force composed of the Department
of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of
Trade Industry (DTI), Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), as
well as the presidential adviser on public resources and three academic institutions
directly involved in S & T. The development of fifteen (15) leading edges to steer the
country toward industrial development were: (1) aquaculture and (2) marine
fisheries, (3) forestry and (4) natural resources. (5) process industry. (6) food and (7)
feed industry, (8) energy. (9) transportation, (10) construction industry. (11)
information technology. (12) electronics, (13) instrumentation and control, (14)
emerging technologies, (15) pharmaceuticals.

 To attain the objectives set in the STMP the following strategies were pursued:
modernize the production sectors through massive technology transfer from
domestic and foreign sources, upgrade the R & D capability through intensified
activities in high priority sector and S&T infrastructure development such as
manpower development, and develop information networks, institutional building and
S&T culture development.

 Science and Technology Agenda for National Development (STAND

Philippines 2000. This plan was initiated during the term of President Ramos and it
embodied the country's technology development plan in the medium-term, in
particular, for the period 1993-1998. The STAND identified seven export winners,
11 domestic needs, three other supporting industries, and coconut industry
as priority Investment area. The seven identified export winners were
computer software, fashion accessories: gifts, toys, and houseware; marine
products; metal fabrications, fumiture, and dried fruits. The domestic needs
included food, housing, health, clothing, transportation, communication,
disaster mitigation, defense, environment, manpower development and
energy. Because of their linkages with the above sectors, three additional
support industries were included in the list of priority sectors, namely:
packaging, chemicals, and metals. Lastly, because of its strategic importance,
the coconut industry was included in the list.

 National Science and Technology Plan (NSTP 2002-2020) . The Department of

Science and Technology (DOST), with the mandate of formulating S&T policies,
programs, and projects in support of national development priorities has remained,
driven by these guiding visions stated in the NSTP mainly.
 By 2004, S&T shall have contributed significantly to the enhancement of national
productivity and competitiveness and to the solution of pressing problems.

By 2010, the Philippines shall have eamed niches and become a world class
knowledge provider and user in selected science and technology areas, and shall
have developed a vibrant S&T culture
By 2020, the Philippines shall have developed a wide range of globally competitive
products and services which have a high technological content.

The 12 priority areas for S&T development are:

A a) Agriculture, forestry & natural resources:
H b) Health and medical services;
B c) Biotechnology:
I d) Information and Communication Technology
M e) Microelectronics;
M f) Materials, science and engineering:
E g) Earth and marine services;
F h) Fisheries and aquaculture:
E i) Environment;
N j) Natural disaster mitigation;
E k) Energy; and
M l) Manufacturing and service engineering.

Status of Science and Technology and Plans for Development under President Rodrigo
Roa-Duterte

The Duterte administration reassured its commitment to science, technology and

innovation sector. This was established in the increase in the budget of the Department of
Science and Technology (DOST). In a speech of President Duterte delivered by Budget
Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno during the opening of the National Science and
Technology Week 2017, he stated that the budget of DOST has quadrupled in the last
seven years from P50 billion in 2010 to P208 billion in 2017. The budget for research
and development grew by nearly 6X over the same period of time from P1 billion in 2009
to P5.8 billion in 2017. This was disclosed in his speech during the celebration of the
National Science and Technology Week at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on
July 11, 2017.

In the 10-point economic agenda, the promotion of science, technology and creative
arts was included to enhance innovation and creative capacity towards self-sustaining
inclusive development. S&T must create an avenue for development in various sectors, such
as in the economy.

DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Pena identified the focus of the

Department as technology transfer and commercialization thus ten percent of its
overall budget was allocated for technology transfer. This resulted to generation of 1000
new intellectual properties that can be adopted in just one year.

Major accomplishments of the Duterte administration are:

 Entry into the frontiers of space through its support to the Philippine Space
Technology Program. DIWATA-1 satellites which was launched in 2016 was
made by Filipino scientists who were trained in Japan. The DIWATA-2 which will be
launched in 2018 has improved the capabilities to better monitor the country. This
was made by another batch of Filipino scientists. This space technologies can also be
utilized in other sectors, such as in agriculture and disaster preparedness.

 A Memorandum of Agreement between Russia and the Philippines regarding

the space program will soon materialize.

 Republic Act 11035 "An Act Institutionalizing the Balik Scientist Program was
signed into law by the President on June 15, 2018. This law would give more
incentives to returning Filipino experts, scientists, inventors, and engineers who
would share their expertise in the country.

 On telecommunication, Department of Information and Communication Technology,

National Telecommunication Commission and telecommunication companies have
agreed to standardize voice call charges to P2.50.

 On weather, 271 new weather stations were installed by the Department of

Science and Technology throughout the country. The Zamboanga Doppler
Weather Radar System was also installed.