18/03/2025
Dr. Gregorio Zara, a renowned Filipino scientist, engineer, and visionary inventor, revolutionized telecommunications technology in 1955 by developing the video-telephone system, a groundbreaking innovation that served as the precursor to modern video calling platforms such as Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype. His trailblazing invention enabled the simultaneous transmission of both audio and visual signals, allowing people to see and communicate with each other in real-time—a concept far ahead of its time.
Zara’s pioneering advancement in video communication technology laid the foundation for the digital communication era, marking a historic milestone in global telecommunication innovation. Despite not being widely commercialized during its time, his cutting-edge research and development played a crucial role in shaping the future of remote communication. Today, video conferencing, virtual meetings, and online interactions have become an integral part of everyday life, all thanks to visionary inventors like Dr. Zara.
As one of the Philippines’ most celebrated inventors, Dr. Gregorio Zara's contributions continue to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and tech innovators, showcasing the rich legacy of Filipino excellence in science and technology. His groundbreaking work in telecommunications engineering has cemented his legacy as a global technology pioneer, proving that Filipino ingenuity has played a vital role in shaping the world’s communication landscape.