Law Summary
Definition and Scope of Balik Scientist
- A Balik Scientist is defined as a science or technology expert, Filipino citizen or foreigner of Filipino descent, residing abroad.
- Such expert is contracted by the National Government to work in the Philippines either for a short term (minimum one month) or long term (minimum two years).
Incentives for Short-Term Balik Scientists
- Eligibility to free round-trip economy airfare from abroad to the Philippines.
- Access to grants-in-aid for approved research and development projects.
- Benefits are provided under guidelines issued for the Short-Term Program.
Incentives for Long-Term Balik Scientists and Returning Graduates
- Free one-way economy airfare for the scientist and immediate family (spouse and two minor dependents) to the Philippines; and free return airfare after required residency period.
- Duty-free importation of professional instruments, tools, personal effects, and other items suitable to their profession.
- No-dollar importation of motor vehicles subject to conditions and guidelines of the Board of Investments and relevant agencies.
- Travel tax exemption for qualified Filipino permanent residents abroad.
- Freight expense reimbursement for shipment of a car and personal effects, including specified excess baggage allowances.
- Housing assistance through designated institutions.
- Help in securing registration or licensure exemptions from the Professional Regulation Commission.
- Grants-in-aid for research and development projects approved by DOST.
- Special non-immigrant visas for participants and dependents with exemptions from visa, immigration, and registration fees.
Funding and Administration
- Incentives are funded through appropriations allocated to DOST for scientific research and development activities.
- The Department of Science and Technology is the administering body responsible for the implementation and issuance of rules.
Coordination and Enforcement
- The Secretary of Science and Technology may require cooperation from government departments, agencies, bureaus, and government-owned or controlled corporations for program facilitation.
Effective Date
- The Executive Order establishing the Program takes effect immediately upon signing.