DOST: Over 120 Filipino scientists return to PH under 'Balik Scientist' program

More than 120 Filipino scientists have returned to the Philippines as of last year to share their expertise in the local science scene as part of the Department of Science and Technology’s “Balik Scientist Program.”

Science Secretary Renato Solidum said Monday that some of those who returned last year have decided to stay in the Philippines permanently.

“Sa July 2022 hanggang end of 2024, mahigit 120 plus ang ating napabalik na mga siyentista. Ang iba dito ay permanent na,” he told Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon. “Kasi yung ating engagement sa ‘Balik Scientist’ ay 15 days to six months; six months to one year; and one year to three years.”

(From July 22 until the end of 2024, over 120 scientists have returned. Some of them have decided to stay here permanently. Our engagement for the ‘Balik Scientist’ program is usually 15 days to six months; six months to one year; and one year to three years.)

“Pero yung bumalik na dito, mas natutulungan natin kasi nabibigyan natin sila ng grant-in-aid funds para makabili ng mga laboratory, makapag-set up ng mga labs, at marami na silang mga technology na nade-develop para makatulong,” Solidum added.

(We are now able to provide grant-in-aid funds for them to set up their laboratories and so they can develop more technologies that could help the society.)

The “Balik Scientist” program seeks to address brain drain in the country by encouraging Filipino scientists to return to the Philippines to share their knowledge and to develop human capital in the field of science.

Among the priority areas for returning scientists include agriculture, aquatic, natural resources, health, energy, and emerging technology.

Further, the DOST said it is aiming to keep a pool of future scientists with thousands studying in the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) and taking degree programs in science, technology, and mathematics (STEM).

The department said it has around 10,000 scholars in the PSHS; close to 50,000 college students in STEM degrees, and around 5,000 taking masters and doctorate degrees in science and technology.

“Kailangan natin mag-build ng ecosystem para patuloy yung gagawa ng mga research at innovation dito sa Pilipinas,” said Solidum.

(We need to build an ecosystem so there will be continuity in the researches and innovation here in the Philippines.)  — RSJ, GMA Integrated News