In recent archaeological discoveries, Southeast Asia has emerged as a significant player in the ancient world, particularly in terms of maritime technology. Researchers have uncovered stone tools and other artifacts that suggest the region was a technological leader in seafaring practices as far back as 40,000 years ago. These findings challenge the long-held belief that Europe and Africa were the primary centers of technological advancement during the Paleolithic era. Instead, the evidence indicates that the ancient inhabitants of the Philippines and surrounding islands were pioneers in boatbuilding and open-sea fishing, offering a fresh perspective on human history.