Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 737)
The constitutional basis is Section 10, Article XIV of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, which states that science and technology are essential for national development and that the State shall give priority to research, development, invention, innovation, and their utilization.
The rank and title of National Scientist was created under Presidential Decree No. 1003-A, dated December 16, 1976.
The President of the Philippines has the authority to confer the rank and title of National Scientist, based on the powers vested by the Constitution and existing laws.
The Secretary of Science and Technology and the National Academy of Science and Technology recommend individuals for the conferment of the National Scientist title.
Although the specific privileges and emoluments are not detailed in the Proclamation itself, the rank and title of National Scientist come with various privileges and emoluments as provided by relevant laws and administrative issuances related to the honor.
Proclamation No. 737 officially confers the rank and title of National Scientist to Gavino Cajulao Trono, Jr., Ph.D., recognizing his preeminent achievements in Marine Science and his contributions to national development and scientific progress.
Executive Order No. 292 and Executive Order No. 236 provide the administrative and procedural framework that governs the conferment of honors including the title of National Scientist, ensuring legal compliance and proper official recognition.
He was recognized due to his preeminent achievements and contributions in the field of Marine Science, which reflect national genius and contribute to the progress of the Philippines and the world.
The conferment signifies the Philippines’ commitment to prioritize and honor scientific and technological advancements as key to national development, reflecting the constitutional mandate to support research and innovation.
The legal documents cited include the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines, Presidential Decree No. 1003-A (1976), Executive Order No. 292 (1987), and Executive Order No. 236 (2003).