What is the First Science High School in the Philippines?
Science high schools are specialized public schools that offer a curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). They aim to nurture the talents and interests of students who are gifted in these fields and prepare them for higher education and careers in STEM-related industries.
But do you know which science high school started it all in the Philippines? In this blog post, we will explore the history and achievements of the first science high school in the country: the Manila Science High School (MaSci).
The Birth of MaSci
The Manila Science High School was established in 1963, making it the first science high school in the Philippines. It was patterned after the Bronx Science High School of New York, which was known for producing many Nobel laureates and prominent scientists.
The idea of creating a science high school in Manila came from Dr. Gregorio Y. Zara, a Filipino engineer and inventor who served as the Secretary of Education at that time. He envisioned a school that would provide a rigorous and advanced education in science and mathematics to the brightest students in the city.
The pilot science high school started in 1959 with 36 students who were selected from various public elementary schools in Manila. They underwent a four-year accelerated program that covered the secondary and collegiate levels of science and mathematics. The first batch graduated in 1963 and became the pioneers of MaSci.
The Legacy of MaSci
Since its inception, MaSci has produced many outstanding alumni who have excelled in various fields of science, engineering, medicine, law, education, business, arts, and public service. Some of the notable MaSci graduates include:
- Dr. Lourdes Cruz, a biochemist and National Scientist of the Philippines who discovered the conotoxins from cone snails that have potential applications in neuroscience and pharmacology.
- Dr. Alfredo Santos, a chemist and National Scientist of the Philippines who pioneered the research on natural products and essential oils from Philippine plants.
- Dr. Bienvenido Nebres, a mathematician and former president of the Ateneo de Manila University who contributed to the development of Philippine education and research.
- Dr. Carmencita Padilla, a pediatrician and geneticist who is the current chancellor of the University of the Philippines Manila and the founder of the Institute of Human Genetics.
- Dr. Reynaldo Vea, an engineer and educator who is the current president of the Mapua University and the former president of the Philippine Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology.
- Dr. Michael Tan, an anthropologist and writer who is the current chancellor of the University of the Philippines Diliman and the former editor-in-chief of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
- Dr. Jose Dalisay Jr., a writer and professor who has won numerous awards for his novels, short stories, essays, and screenplays.
- Dr. Maria Corazon de Ungria, a forensic scientist and professor who heads the DNA Analysis Laboratory of the University of the Philippines Diliman and the Philippine Genome Center.
- Dr. Rogelio M. Quiambao, an engineer and inventor who holds several patents for his innovations in renewable energy, water treatment, and waste management.
These are just some of the many MaSci alumni who have made significant contributions to the advancement of science and society in the Philippines and beyond.
The Future of MaSci
Today, MaSci continues to uphold its vision of being a center of excellence in science and mathematics education. It offers a six-year integrated curriculum that covers grades 7 to 12, with special tracks in STEM, humanities, and sports. It also provides various opportunities for students to engage in research, innovation, and leadership activities.
MaSci is also committed to improving its facilities and resources to meet the demands of the 21st century. It has recently completed the construction of a new building that houses modern laboratories, classrooms, and offices. It has also acquired new equipment and software to enhance the learning experience of students and teachers.
MaSci is not only the first science high school in the Philippines, but also one of the best. It has a rich history, a remarkable legacy, and a bright future. It is a school that inspires and challenges its students to pursue their passions and potentials in science and mathematics, and to use their knowledge and skills for the benefit of humanity.