Leaders of various nations have accepted the important role of science and technology, along with innovation, in achieving economic growth and making the lives of their constituents better.

Having a genuine concern for national development, President Marcos took the opportunity at the opening ceremony for the 2022 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) last Nov. 23 to affirm his administration’s policy of ramping up research and building a “bigger pool” of scientists to hasten the nation’s transformation into a more progressive society.

Going to the brass tacks, the President has ordered the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to provide sufficient resources for research and development in a bid to convince more Filipino scientists to stay here.

“I encourage our Filipino scientists, researchers, inventors and innovators, to continue sharing your expertise, especially to young people. I urge you to stay in the country as you pursue your career. We will continue to support you and continue to look to you to be active partners of the government,” he said.

Marcos correctly pointed out that developing science and technology in the Philippines should start with our young people. Towards this end, he promised to institute a scholarship program, specifically for STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) students and “this will not be limited to those who have shown their capabilities, their ability and how they deserve these scholarships here in the Philippines but to any institution that they are accepted to abroad.”

Such a laudable plan should translate into developing a whole generation of young Filipinos who are adept in the diverse topics in the STEM fields of study, and are building their skills in applying scientific principles to real-world applications.

It might take a couple of years, but if the Marcos administration starts this scholarship program next year, we would be producing scientists and experts in biotechnology, physical science, animal and plant science, information technology and other fields well within PBBM’s term of office.

As the Chief Executive himself said: This is important so that they continue to develop our workforce, we continue to develop our capabilities, and our knowledge.

Vital in this plan to push greater accomplishments in science and technology (S&T) is the Chief Executive’s assurance of government support to local scientists. He said his administration would back initiatives in pushing for science and technology, as well as research and development-based solutions to the country’s problems, especially in the agriculture sector.

Let us support the President’s call to develop a “bigger pool of scientists, researchers, and innovators in the country.”