Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 2067)
The short title is the Science Act of 1958.
The policy is to promote scientific and technological research and development, foster invention, and utilize scientific knowledge as an instrument for national progress.
To stimulate scientific and technological efforts addressing basic needs, survey and utilize scientific resources, strengthen education for science manpower, furnish incentives for scientific work, promote dissemination of research, encourage participation domestically and internationally, coordinate research to avoid duplication, establish standards and quality control, and encourage fundamental science studies.
It is the board created to coordinate and promote scientific research and development in the Philippines, formulate national scientific policies and programs, review and prioritize projects, develop manpower programs, facilitate scientific aid, provide incentives, disseminate research results, grant scholarships and awards, and generally implement the Act's objectives.
It consists of a Chairman, Vice-Chairman (who is also the Executive Director), the Chairman of the National Research Council, Commissioners of the National Institute of Science and Technology and the Philippine Atomic Energy Commission, the Director of the Office of National Planning, a representative from the University of the Philippines, and members representing industry, scientific/technological societies, agriculture, and education.
Both must be Filipino citizens with proven executive ability and distinction in science, technology, or related professions, and must pass security clearance. The Chairman has cabinet rank and a six-year term, while the Vice-Chairman serves concurrently with specific duties.
Notwithstanding Commonwealth Act No. 138 and public bidding requirements, the Chairman with Board approval can enter into contracts or arrangements for scientific research projects and make partial or advance payments as necessary.
The Institute implements scientific and technological R&D programs, cooperates with private sectors, conducts specialized research studies, performs product standards analyses, provides data, operates research centers, evaluates project proposals, manages patents, and recommends training and scholarships.
It establishes nuclear research labs, conducts nuclear research, issues regulations and licenses for radioactive material, evaluates nuclear projects, coordinates nuclear science activities, represents the Philippines in atomic energy conferences, and recommends scholarships in nuclear science.
They cannot practice any profession or manage/control private enterprises affected by their office, nor have financial interest in government contracts during their term.
Private foundations and research projects are tax-exempt and contributions are deductible from income tax upon Board certification that the funds are dedicated to scientific pursuits.
A person may be fined up to four thousand pesos or imprisoned for up to one year, or both. Corporations may be fined up to ten thousand pesos in addition to criminal liability of responsible officers.
Funds obligated by contract remain available for expenditure for four years following the fiscal year or the duration of the contract.
It acts as the official scientific adviser to the Government and the National Science Development Board.
It took effect upon the constitution of the Board but not later than thirty days after approval of the Act.