Originally established as the National Science and Development Board (NSDB) on 13 June 1958, it was reconstituted as the National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA) on 17 March 1981 with the vision of "A competent and competitive science and technology community with a social conscience."

With the agency's elevation to full cabinet stature by virtue of Executive Order 128 signed on 30 January 1987, the functions and responsibilities of DOST expanded correspondingly to include the following:

• Pursue the declared state policy of supporting local scientific and technological effort
• Develop local capability to achieve technological self-reliance
• Encourage greater private sector participation in research and development

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the premiere science and technology body in the country charged with the twin mandate of providing central direction, leadership and coordination of all scientific and technological activities, and of formulating policies, programs and projects to support national development.

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.

EO-128

"The DOST shall provide central direction, leadership and coordination of scientific and technological efforts and ensure that the result there geared and utilized in area of maximum economic and social benefits for the people"