Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 901)
The purpose of Executive Order No. 901 is to prescribe rules and regulations to implement the Scientific Career System initially in the National Science and Technology Authority to support and encourage the development of science and technology in the Philippines.
The Scientific Career System (SCS) is a system of recruitment, career progression, recognition, and reward of scientists in the public service designed to develop a pool of highly qualified and productive scientific personnel based on merit, qualifications, and scientific productivity.
The System applies to scientific personnel with masteral and/or doctoral degrees in sciences who are directly involved in research and development, including other highly qualified scientific personnel occupying critical positions in the National Science and Technology Authority and its component agencies, with plans to expand to other government scientific personnel.
The ranks range from Scientist I to Scientist V, with qualifications including completion of masteral or doctoral degrees and years of productive scholarship and professional research and development work.
Appointments and career progression are based on qualification, merit, scientific productivity, and evaluation by the Scientific Career Council and other committees as established under the system.
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) administers the system with final authority, assisted by the Scientific Career Council (SCC) made up of key representatives from CSC, NSTA, and scientific bodies.
Criteria include education (advanced academic degree of at least masteral level from a recognized institution), significant productivity through scientific outputs, discoveries, practical applications, training of scientists, and professional standing with eligibility under PD 997 or RA No. 1080.
No person covered by the System shall be divested of or demoted in rank except for cause as provided by law, with the application of Civil Service Law and Rules on administrative discipline.
Salary follows the compensation plan attached (Annex II) which includes fringe benefits and allowances comparable to the Career Executive Service, subject to revision with the approval of the Office of Budget and Management.
The Civil Service Academy and NSTA are tasked to develop and administer continuing training and development programs for all scientific personnel in the government service to enhance their skills and capabilities.