Law Summary
Declaration of State Policy
- The State recognizes the value of science, technology, and innovation experts of Filipino descent.
- Supports their active participation in national R&D initiatives.
- Encourages strengthening scientific and technological human resources across public and private sectors.
Program Structure and Administration
- The DOST is tasked with identifying local gaps in expertise and facilitating Balik Scientist engagements.
- Manages applications for short-term, medium-term, and long-term engagements with host institutions.
- Establishes rules, monitors program implementation, assesses impact, and sets research and industry priorities.
Definitions of Engagement Terms and Key Terms
- Balik Scientist: Filipino citizen or foreigner of Filipino descent, with outstanding expertise, residing abroad or recently returned (within 3 years).
- Host Institution: Any government agency, academic institution, or private/local enterprise in the Philippines collaborating with the Balik Scientist.
- Engagement Terms:
- Short-term: 15 days to 6 months within 1 year.
- Medium-term: More than 6 months up to 1 year to be served within 2-3 years.
- Long-term: More than 1 up to 3 years, subject to renewal, to be served within 5 years.
General Program Objectives
- Strengthen scientific and technical human resources in educational, public, and private institutions.
- Promote knowledge sharing and accelerate technology transfer.
- Balik Scientists engage in mentorship, training, lectures, research, development, and related activities aligned with national priorities.
Benefits, Incentives, and Privileges
- General Benefits for all Balik Scientists include:
- Exemption from Professional Regulation Commission licensing.
- Accident and medical insurance.
- Reimbursement for excess baggage related to scientific work.
- Retention of allegiance oaths to other countries unless repatriating.
- Tax and duty exemptions on donations, professional equipment, and materials.
Term-Specific Benefits for Short-Term Balik Scientists
- One round-trip airfare exempt from travel tax.
- Visa facilitation and subsidy by the DOST.
- Tax-exempt daily allowance.
- Eligibility to participate in Grant-in-Aid research projects.
Term-Specific Benefits for Medium-Term Balik Scientists
- One round-trip airfare exempt from travel tax.
- Visa facilitation and subsidy.
- Tax-exempt daily allowance.
- Eligibility for Grant-in-Aid projects similar to short-term engagements.
Term-Specific Benefits for Long-Term Balik Scientists
- Round-trip airfare for awardee and immediate family, exempt from travel tax.
- Special relocation benefits including nonimmigrant visa, exemption from alien employment permits, and multiple entry fees.
- Tax and duty exemptions for personal and professional imports.
- Importation of one motor vehicle with GVW <= 3.5 tons, with exemption from bond posting and future exportation.
- Admission assistance for minor children’s schooling.
- Job assistance for spouses.
- Relocation allowance and monthly housing/accommodation allowance.
- Participation in Grants-in-Aid projects.
- Funding support for establishing government-owned facilities or laboratories.
Role in R&D Leadership Program
- Balik Scientists serve in mentorship, leadership, and technical roles within DOST R&D initiatives.
- The roles are reflected in their contracts with DOST and host institutions.
Coordination and Priority Areas
- DOST coordinates with various government entities for program implementation.
- Prioritized areas include Space Technology, AI, Biomedical Engineering, Energy, Agriculture, Biotechnology, ICT, Pharmaceuticals, Disaster Management, Environment, and others.
- Priority fields may be adjusted based on government needs.
Annual Recognition and Reporting
- DOST organizes annual conventions highlighting Balik Scientists’ contributions.
- Balik Scientists must submit accomplishment reports post-engagement.
- DOST submits an annual program summary with financial and activity reports to Congress.
Data Management
- DOST maintains a databank of all Balik Scientists to facilitate promotion and planning.
Additional Incentives
- DOST may authorize more benefits or one-time bonuses to attract Balik Scientists.
- These benefits align with existing laws and regulations.
Funding and Implementation
- Program funding is included in the DOST annual budget as per the General Appropriations Act.
- DOST must promulgate implementing rules within 90 days of the Act’s effectivity.
Legal Provisions
- Contains a separability clause ensuring validity despite potential unconstitutionality of parts.
- Repeals inconsistent laws or regulations.
- Takes effect 15 days after publication in official or general circulation media.