Declaration of Policy
- The State recognizes the importance of utilizing the expertise of Filipino science, technology, and innovation experts for national development.
- Filipino experts in various fields are encouraged to participate in research and development initiatives through benefits and incentives.
Establishment of the Balik Scientist Program
- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) administers the Program.
- DOST duties include identifying expertise gaps, managing applications, facilitating benefits, issuing rules, monitoring implementation, assessing impacts, and guiding research agendas.
- Priority giving to projects aligned with government programs of local and national significance.
Program Objectives
- Strengthen scientific and technological resources of the academe, public/private institutions, and local enterprises.
- Promote knowledge sharing and accelerate technology transfer.
- Facilitate engagements including mentorship, training, lectures, R&D, and technology initiatives aligned with national priorities.
Definitions
- Balik Scientist: Filipino citizen or foreigner of Filipino descent with expertise, residing abroad or recently returned, eligible regardless of graduate degree if exceptionally skilled.
- Host Institution: Government or private institutions in the Philippines involved in S&T activities with a Balik Scientist.
- Engagement Terms: Short-term (15 days to 6 months), medium-term (over 6 months up to 1 year), long-term (over 1 year up to 3 years, renewable).
General Benefits and Privileges
- Exemption from Professional Regulation Commission licensing.
- Accident and medical insurance during engagement.
- Reimbursement for excess baggage related to projects.
- Exemption from renouncing previous oaths of allegiance unless opting to repatriate with government employment.
- Tax and duty exemptions on donations and importation of professional equipment.
Term-Specific Benefits and Incentives
- Short-Term: Round-trip airfare, visa facilitation, tax-exempt daily allowance, participation in Grants-in-Aid (GIA).
- Medium-Term: Similar to short-term, with extended duration and engagement.
- Long-Term: Round-trip airfare for scientist, spouse, and dependents; special visas; exemption from alien employment permits; tax and duty exemptions; importation of one motor vehicle; relocation allowance; job assistance for spouse; housing allowance; participation in GIA; funding for facilities (government property).
Role in R&D Leadership
- Awardees undertake mentorship, leadership, or technical roles in DOST’s R&D Leadership Program and other initiatives.
Administration and Coordination
- DOST coordinates with various government agencies and prioritizes key scientific fields such as Space Technology, AI, Biotechnology, and more.
- Sectoral councils may be assigned to enhance focus on priority areas.
Other Related Activities
- Annual conventions organized by DOST to recognize Balik Scientists’ contributions and highlight scientific advancements.
Monitoring and Reporting
- Balik Scientists must submit accomplishment reports post-engagement.
- DOST submits annual summary reports to Congressional committees detailing expenditures and activities.
Data Banking
- DOST maintains a databank of Balik Scientists for research and development promotion.
Additional Benefits
- DOST may provide further incentives including one-time bonuses and privileges to attract Balik Scientists.
Appropriations
- Funding included in the annual DOST budget via the General Appropriations Act.
Rules and Regulations
- DOST has 90 days from enactment to issue implementing rules in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
Separability and Repealing Clauses
- Unconstitutional provisions do not affect the remainder of the Act.
- Conflicting laws and issuances are repealed or amended accordingly.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.