Pinoy scientists to get local incentives under Senate bill

The "Balik Scientist" Senate Bill No. 1324 aims to bolster the Philippines' scientific capacity by making it easier for the country's scientists to come back after studying abroad.

Among other things, the bill seeks to provide travel subsidies, financial support, and tax incentives to overseas scientists to return to—and work in—the Philippines. 

The bill's author, Sen. Grace Poe, cited "overwhelming" statistics from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) showing that the number of outbound science and technology workers jumped by almost 150 percent between 1998 and 2009 alone.

The ratio of science experts to the public stands at 165 per million Filipinos, far below the United Nations' recommendation of 380 per million, Poe noted.

"This bill envisions a future in which Filipino scientists contribute to nation-building and inclusive growth through the acceleration of research and development in the country," Poe said in a press release. — GMA News