The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has established the Balik Scientist Program (BSP)—an initiative designed to bring back Filipino scientists from abroad to share their expertise and counteract “brain drain” in an attempt to strengthen its science and technology (S&T) sector and contribute to national development. This is because, for years now, the country has continued to face a shortage of experts in the field as many Filipino scientists seek opportunities abroad in hopes of better compensation.
This DOST program allows participants to work in projects that align with the country’s priority areas temporarily or permanently, helping to strengthen the local S&T landscape by fostering research and innovation that boosts national progress. If you’re a science and technology professional interested in participating, this guide will walk you through the application process, qualifications, benefits, and more.
Benefits of the Balik Scientist Program
As a government initiative against “brain drain”, the program was created to be appealing and advantageous and to offer numerous advantages that would entice Filipino scientists abroad. Some benefits are meant for both returning scientists and the country. These benefits include:
- Reversing brain drain by providing incentives to return, ensuring that the country benefits from their expertise.
- Enhancing knowledge sharing by encouraging collaboration with local researchers, universities, and industries, fostering innovation and improving scientific research in the Philippines.
- Strengthening the Science and Technology sector through the contribution of the BSP participants in the development of strategic technologies and scientific advancements, helping to propel national progress.
- Inspiring future scientists by serving as motivation for younger generations to pursue careers in science and technology.
Types and Features of BSP Engagements and Incentives
The program offers three types of engagements, each with specific incentives:
- Short-Term (15 days to 6 months)
- One round-trip international airfare
- Daily allowance (USD 200/day or UNDP rate, whichever is higher)
- Subsidized visa application
- Round-trip domestic airfare and accommodation for one local conference
- Health and dental insurance (PHP 250,000 per illness)
- Accident/travel insurance (up to PHP 3 million coverage)
- Freight and excess baggage allowance (up to 25 kg)
- Research funding (proposal-driven)
- Membership in the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) and one professional organization
- One-time incentive for outstanding completion
- Exemption from PRC requirements
- Medium-Term (6 months to 1 year)
- All benefits of short-term engagement, plus:
- Round-trip domestic airfare and accommodation for two local conferences
- Long-Term (1 to 3 years)
- All benefits of medium-term engagement, plus:
- Round-trip international airfare for scientist, spouse, and dependents
- Special non-immigrant visa for scientist, spouse, and dependents
- Relocation allowance (PHP 250,000)
- Housing allowance (up to PHP 40,000/month)
- Transportation allowance (PHP 5,000/month)
- Salary equivalent to at least Salary Grade 24
- Round-trip domestic airfare and accommodation for three local conferences
Target Beneficiaries
The program is designed to attract highly skilled Filipino professionals in science and technology to contribute to national development. These professionals include:
- Foreign-based Filipino scientists and researchers – Experts currently working abroad in various scientific and technological fields.
- Filipino professionals with advanced degrees – Those holding master’s or doctoral degrees in priority sectors identified by DOST.
- Internationally recognized experts of Filipino descent – Scientists with significant achievements and contributions in their respective fields.
- Academe and research institutions – Universities, colleges, and research centers looking to enhance their scientific manpower.
- Government agencies and private industries – Organizations that require expertise in specialized scientific and technological areas.
- Aspiring Filipino scientists and students – Future professionals who can benefit from mentorship and knowledge-sharing under the program.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for BSP, applicants must:
- Be a Filipino citizen working abroad or a foreigner of Filipino descent
- Hold a graduate or advanced degree
- Be an internationally recognized expert in a DOST priority sector
- Be willing to serve in the Philippines on a short, medium, or long-term basis
Documents Required
Before starting with the application procedures, interested applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Accomplished BSP Application Form (BSP Form 001)
- Terms of Reference (BSP Form 002)
- Endorsement letter from the host public/private institution/association (if application is submitted directly by the Balik Scientist Applicant)
- Medical certificate
- Copy of passport (including the latest arrival stamp)
- For non-Filipino passport holders: proof of Filipino descent (e.g., birth certificate, sworn statement)
- Copy of diploma, transcript of records, or certificate of academic achievements
- Updated curriculum vitae, including:
- Educational background
- Field of specialization
- Areas of research interest
- Professional history and achievements
- Relevant training, fellowships, or grants
- Justification for subsequent engagement (if reapplying)
Application Procedures
Once the requirements are ready, you may already start with the application procedures for the DOST BSP. To do so, simply follow these steps:
Step 1: Submit Your Application
Submit the completed application to the Balik Scientist Secretariat at the DOST Building, Gen. Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City, Metro Manila
Step 2: Application Review & Evaluation
The application process involves multiple steps:
- Submission and initial review at the BSP Secretariat (1 working day)
- If the application is complete, it is then forwarded to technical evaluators (1 working day)
- The Technical Evaluators review and evaluate the credentials, accomplishments, and alignment with DOST priorities (5 working days)
- The BSP Secretariat submits its recommendation to the Undersecretary for R&D (1 working day)
- The Undersecretary for R&D reviews the application and decides whether to approve or send for re-evaluation (2 working days)
- If necessary, the OISEC for R&D sends the application for re-evaluation of the concerned council (2 working days)
- It is then sent for the final approval of the DOST Secretary (3 working days)
- Regardless of the decision, a notification of approval or disapproval is sent out by the BSP Secretariat to the applicant (1-2 working days)
Where to Secure the Application Form
The application form and terms of reference form for the DOST Balik Scientist Program (BSP) are available online. Applicants can download them through the official BSP website: https://bsp.dost.gov.ph/how-to-apply/
- BSP Application Form (BSP Form 001): Download here
- Terms of Reference Form (BSP Form 002): Download here
Once all requirements are completed, the processing of the application and admission to the BSP may take up to one (1) month.
Video: Understanding the DOST Balik Scientist Program
The DOST Balik Scientist Program (BSP) is a government initiative designed to offer excellent opportunities for Filipino scientists abroad to come home and contribute to national development while receiving financial and professional incentives. In doing so, they can help strengthen the country’s S&T sector and inspire future generations of innovators. If you are interested or you need more information about this program, watch this video from GradMap Philippines:
For more information, visit DOST’s official website or contact the BSP Secretariat via the following:
Office of the Undersecretary for S&T Services
2/F NRCP Building
Gen. Santos Ave., Bicutan, Taguig City
Trunkline No. 837-2071 to 82 local 2015, 2033
Direct Line: 837 7494
Website: http://bsp.dost.gov.ph
Email: dostousecsts@gmail.com, balikscientistp@gmail.com