President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. committed to providing better incentives for Filipino scientists, underscoring their essential role in the country’s economic recovery and in confronting climate crises.
 
Marcos served as the guest of honor during the 18th Annual Balik Scientist Program (BSP) Convention at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Thursday.
 
“You may always be assured that I and my administration will extend all support in making science and innovation an instrument of progress and prosperity for the Filipino,” Marcos said in his speech.
 
“I encourage everyone here present to continue searching for more avenues to work with one another in employing science and innovation for the benefit of our people.”
 
Marcos said Filipino scientists could help with various concerns, such as climate change mitigation and adaptation.
 
He also highlighted the critical role of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)—with the help of the participating Balik Scientists—in addressing the perennial issues in the country through research and development initiatives.
 
“You must continue to strengthen the implementation of the Balik Scientist Program and find ways to provide more incentives to encourage more Filipino scientists to come back to the country and share their expertise,” he said.

Marcos also expressed optimism that the government could sustain and augment the short, medium, and long-term benefits for the Balik scientists and their families under the law, which include allowances, education assistance for minor children, and participation in grants-in-aid projects, among others.
 
He also urged the DOST to develop more initiatives to inspire young people to pursue scientific and technological courses.
 
“Let us also encourage our young people by showing them what a career in science, research and development, in what the work that is being done by Balik scientists and to motivate them and to inspire them, and to explain to them that you can do this too,” he said.
 
“I urge you to fully support all the research projects and the inventions that our Balik scientists bring. Let this platform as well as other programs inspire the younger generation of Filipino scientists to dedicate their talent, their knowledge, and energy for the nation,” he added.
 
Joining the President during the occasion were DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, DOST Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang, DOST Assistant Secretary Leah Buendia, and Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, Balik scientists.