The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is mandated to:

provide central direction, leadership, and coordination of all science and technology activities in the country; and, formulate S&T policies, programs, and projects in support of national development priorities. The Department through the years:

• 1958 - Congress passes a law establishing the National Science Development Board (NSDB) upon the recommendation of Dr. Frank Co Tui, who was tasked to survey the state of Philippine S&T during the Garcia administration;
• 1982 - NSDB revamped as the National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA) and accorded broader policy-making and program implementing functions;
• 1987 - NSTA elevated to Cabinet level and becomes the DOST in response to increasing demands for S&T intervention in national development.

In the 90's, DOST's overall mission is embodied in the 1990-2000 Science and Technology Master Plan (STMP) that shows the direction and desired goals of Philippine S&T for both the public and private sectors.

The Medium-Term Plan of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), for the period 1999-2004, outlines DOST's programs and projects in pursuance of the vision of a competent and competitive science community with a social conscience.

Guided by the principles of competence, competitiveness, and conscience, the DOST shall pursue six priority flagship programs under the Arroyo Administration, namely:

Establishment of a Packaging R&D Center;

Expansion of Regional Metrology Centers;

Comprehensive Program to Enhance Technology Enterprises;

Integrated Program on Clean Technologies

S&T Intervention Program for the Poor, Vulnerable and Disabled; and

Comprehensive S&T Program for Mindanao

About the LOGO

EXCELLENCE, RELEVANCE, COOPERATION and COST-EFFECTIVENESS

The logo of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) consists essentially of four circles joined together side by side to form a square. The circles symbolize unit particles, the building blocks of nature which are the subject and substance of science and technology. The circle design gives an illusion of movement signifying progress through Science and Technology.

The space in the center of the joined circles forms a four-pointed star symbolic of scientific creativity.

The logo' s three-color scheme represents the unknown(black), truth and enlightenment (white) and progress (blue).

The logo's four circles represent the four guiding principles in our S&T development: EXCELLENCE, RELEVANCE, COOPERATION and COST-EFFECTIVENESS.