Non Standard Issue: Small Beginnings

My chemistry class defined atoms as the building blocks of matter. It is a simple concept – a very tiny object links with other small forms to create something basic such as a drop of water to the most complex of structures such as the human brain. Insignificant perhaps, when taken singularly; but when combined, it means the whole universe.

In an archipelago of 7,100 islands with its estimated 80 million inhabitants, I feel like that lonely atom when asked about how I can contribute to the advancement of my country’s stand in science and technology. As an undergraduate student working on my thesis, I could have easily said that our project is the next big thing, and with its blockbuster success, the whole country will be propelled into a new era of discovery and development. Or that single-handedly, I can compensate for the brain drain currently happening in the Philippines and the mass export of our highly-talented human resources. But saying that would be a sham – not because of lack of confidence in myself or my thesis groupmates, but because that “me-only” attitude is an impediment to growth itself.

As an atom, I cannot solely rely on my skills and talents if I want to make a difference. If I want positive change pushing for an improvement in our country’s science and education to ripple towards various sectors of our society, then I must associate myself with various like-minded atoms with the same goals and aims as I have. But if I want this to happen, then I know I must start first with something small yet concrete, and these accomplishments will be the glue to which I will link with others. Step-by-step these little achievements combined together will grow into something noteworthy and transforming.

It sounds like a cliché, but the reason clichés are famous is because they are ripe with the truth. Another cliché which is very much true is that, at this point in our lives as students, the best we can do to help our country is by studying hard and mastering our lessons well so that we will graduate as competent, creative and socially-involved professionals. It is important that we arm ourselves not only with knowledge and skills, but also with the right attitude and character. That is one of the best glues we can use to associate ourselves with people with integrity who are also thirsting for difference. And as an Information Technology student, that is one of my best cards if I want to be with people who will move to push our anemic science and technology performance into a healthier and more vibrant environment enjoyed by our more developed neighbors such as Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea.

With a thriving science and technology atmosphere, coupled with excellent education, the Philippines will reach a higher level of development. Flor Lacanilao, retired professor of marine science at the University of the Philippines Diliman, wrote that the usual symptoms of underdevelopment: poverty, overpopulation, degraded environment, common crimes, and global threats such as terrorism, spread of disease and global warming can all be solved by improving science and education.

You can imagine my joy when I read that article in the Philippine Daily Inquirer. There was magic in those words and I can almost envision the Philippines with the label “Tiger Economy” sinking its teeth in the global economic standings, perhaps with a “Most Environment-Friendly Country” trophy as a bonus. Armed with an excellent science and technology sector, we will have the tools to enhance our economy and society, and pave our way to the top.

But, there was a catch to Professor Lacanilao’s words.

As much as we are gifted with world-class scientist and raw talents, the crucial role of science and technology in national development is undermined in our country, thus we still lag behind other progressive countries which recognize Science & Technology and education as important prerequisites to economic and social transformation. While other countries are already industrialized, our country is still set in the agrarian stage, which is not helped by the government’s focus on an economic platform which is export-oriented and import-reliant.

While browsing through other articles in the PDI website, I read a letter by Giovanni Tapang, the national chair of the Advocates of Science and Technology for the People (Agham), which calls on the administration of President Aquino to institute a comprehensive reform program that would include national industrialization.

Instead of focusing on pleasing and serving foreigners, the government should be building strong domestic industries, such as locally producing tools and machineries for agriculture and other equally important aspects of our economy. Furthermore, Tapang said that genuine agrarian reform will provide the support and infrastructure needed to harness the capabilities of our local, world-class scientists in addressing local problems and boosting domestic industrialization.

And like an atom connecting with other atoms to create something significant, Tapang ended with: “We call on all well-meaning scientists, engineers and other S&T professionals to join Agham in its advocacies and call on the current administration to put in place an industrial environment where we can practice our technical knowledge and skills to help propel our country from the agrarian stage to the industrial stage.”

Somehow, I have already identified two big atoms by the names of Flor Lacanilao and Giovanni Tapang, who have already contributed and achieved a lot, yet are still persistently taking steps forward for the advancement of science and technology in the Philippines. They serve as inspiration for atoms like me who are still starting small. Hopefully, the minuscule ripples of change and the tiny links I am establishing right now will soon blossom into something much greater. Together with other atoms, we will be able to form a progressive Philippines which will be looked up by other countries for being an energetic hub of advancements and discoveries in the field of science and technology.