Law Summary

Introduction

Executive Order No. 784, issued on March 17, 1982, reorganizes the National Science Development Board into the National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA) to enhance the direction, leadership, and coordination of scientific and technological research and development in the Philippines.

Primary Agency

• Legal Principle: The National Science Development Board is transformed into the National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA).
• Definition: "Authority" refers to the newly established NSTA.
• Key Requirements:
  • The Authority shall coordinate scientific and technological research.
  • It ensures the application of research results for national development.

General Responsibility

• Legal Principle: The NSTA is tasked with formulating and implementing science and technology policies.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop capabilities in science and technology.
  • Ensure proper application of scientific activities for economic and social development.
  • Regularly review the state of science and technology in light of national development goals.

Comprehensive National Plan for Science and Technology

• Legal Principle: A Comprehensive National Plan for Science and Technology must be formulated and implemented.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Comprehensive National Plan" refers to the strategic plan guiding the development of science and technology.
• Important Requirements:
  • The plan must be approved by the President and be consistent with national economic development plans.
  • It must prioritize specific programs and projects while rationalizing funding.

Functions of the Authority

• Legal Principle: The NSTA has specific functions to promote scientific and technological development.
• Key Functions:
  • Facilitate research and development across various fields.
  • Promote indigenous technology development and foreign technology adaptation.
  • Prepare annual budgetary requirements and coordinate funding.
  • Establish a national information bank on science and technology.
  • Engage the private sector in scientific activities.

Organization

• Legal Principle: The structure of the Authority is defined, establishing roles and responsibilities.
• Key Positions:
  • Director General: Appointed by the President, oversees the NSTA.
  • Deputy Directors General: Assist the Director General as needed.
• Composition:
  • The Authority consists of its proper office and various agencies under its supervision.

Line Agencies

• Legal Principle: The NSTA will supervise specific agencies involved in scientific and technological research.
• Key Agencies:
  • National Institute of Science and Technology
  • Food and Nutrition Research Institute
  • Philippine Institute of Volcanology, among others.

Administrative Supervision

• Legal Principle: The Authority will exercise administrative supervision over designated agencies.
• Key Agencies Under Supervision:
  • National Academy of Science and Technology
  • Philippine Atomic Energy Commission

Advisory Bodies

• Legal Principle: The Director General may establish advisory bodies for science and technology development.
• Key Details: Advisory bodies will include representatives from scientific, professional, and industrial organizations.

Scientific Career System

• Legal Principle: A system for career progression of scientific personnel will be established.
• Key Features:
  • Merit-based entrance and advancement.
  • Incentives to attract qualified personnel.

Appropriations and Funding

• Legal Principle: Funding for the NSTA's operational expenses will derive from existing appropriations.
• Key Requirements:
  • An augmentation of not less than fifty million pesos is required.

Abolition and Transfer of Functions

• Legal Principle: The National Science Development Board is abolished, and its functions are transferred to the NSTA.
• Key Consequences:
  • All powers, records, and appropriations of the former board will transition to the NSTA.

Implementation and Compliance

• Legal Principle: The Director General is authorized to issue necessary regulations and implement provisions of the Executive Order.
• Key Procedures:
  • Staffing patterns and organizational structures must be aligned with budget approvals.

Key Takeaways

• Executive Order No. 784 establishes the National Science and Technology Authority to streamline and coordinate scientific and technological efforts in the Philippines.
• It mandates the development of a Comprehensive National Plan for science and technology, prioritizing effective resource allocation.
• The NSTA is tasked with fostering partnerships between public and private sectors, enhancing innovation, and promoting public awareness in science and technology.
• The reorganization will lead to the abolition of the previous National Science Development Board, ensuring a fresh structure for enhanced governance in scientific endeavors.