Instituting the Balik Scientist Program Under the Department of Science and Technology

Case Overview and Summary

Summary of Executive Order No. 130

Instituting the Balik Scientist Program under the Department of Science and Technology

- Revives the Balik Scientist Program to allow Filipino scientists, professionals, technicians, or persons with special skills residing abroad to work in the Philippines. (Section 1)

- Defines a Balik Scientist as:
• A Filipino citizen or foreigner of Filipino descent residing abroad. (Section 2)
• Contracted by the National Government to work in the Philippines for a short term (at least 1 month) or long term (at least 2 years). (Section 2)

- Incentives for Short-Term Program Balik Scientists: (Section 3)
• Free round-trip economy airfare from a foreign country to the Philippines. (Section 3a)
• Grants-in-aid for approved research and development projects. (Section 3b)

- Incentives for Long-Term Program Balik Scientists and new graduates from DOST-recognized foreign institutions: (Section 4)
• Free one-way economy airfare from a foreign country to the Philippines, including airfare for spouse and two minor dependents. (Section 4a)
• Free return trip economy airfare after completing 2 years (Balik Scientists) or 3 years (new graduates). (Section 4a)
• Duty-free importation of professional instruments, tools, wearing apparel, domestic animals, and personal/household effects. (Section 4b)
• No-dollar importation of motor vehicles, subject to guidelines. (Section 4c)
• Exemption from payment of travel tax for Filipino permanent residents abroad. (Section 4d)
• Reimbursement of freight expenses for shipment of a car and personal effects, with specified weight limits. (Section 4e)
• Arranged housing through pre-determined institutions. (Section 4f)
• Assistance in securing registration or exemption from licensure requirement from the Professional Regulation Commission. (Section 4g)
• Grants-in-aid for approved research and development projects. (Section 4h)
• Special non-immigrant visas for participants and dependents, exempted from visa, immigration, and registration fees. (Section 4i)

- Financing through programmed appropriations of DOST for scientific research and development assistance. (Section 5)

- DOST to administer the program and issue implementing rules in consultation with appropriate agencies. (Section 6)

- DOST Secretary may call on heads of departments, agencies, bureaus, and government corporations for effective implementation. (Section 7)