The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the executive branch of the Philippine government responsible for coordinating science and technology-related initiatives within the country. Its main role is to develop and implement science and technology policies and projects.
DOST is engaged in various areas of science and technology. One of its significant functions is providing scholarship programs to students interested in pursuing careers in science and technology fields. These scholarships aim to support and nurture talented individuals who show potential in contributing to scientific advancements.What is the Meaning of DOST – Department of Science and Technology
Additionally, DOST offers assistance to entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas requiring development. Through various programs and initiatives, the department aids in transforming these ideas into tangible products or services that can positively impact society.
The DOST plays a vital role in keeping the country informed about the latest advancements in science and technology. By fostering research and development, promoting collaboration among scientists and researchers, and fostering partnerships with local and international institutions, the DOST helps to drive progress in various sectors.
In summary, the Department of Science and Technology in the Philippines serves as a key government agency responsible for coordinating and advancing science and technology initiatives in the country. Its efforts encompass scholarship programs, entrepreneurial support, and the facilitation of scientific progress to benefit society as a whole.
Overview
“Every nation possesses its own governmental division dedicated to overseeing its scientific and technological capabilities, which plays a vital role in the social and economic advancement of the country. In the case of the Philippines, this department is known as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
The DOST serves as the primary governmental agency responsible for coordinating science and technology-related initiatives within the country. It formulates policies and undertakes projects in various scientific and technological fields to support the overall development of the nation.
As the leading scientific agency in the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology assumes the responsibility of overseeing and guiding all science and technology endeavors across the country.”
What is the meaning of DOST?
DOST is an acronym for the Department of Science and Technology.
What is DOST?
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) was established in 1958 under the administration of Carlos P. Garcia. Originally known as the National Science and Development Board, it underwent a name change in 1981 and became the National Science and Technology Authority. The DOST’s headquarters is situated in Taguig City, Metro Manila, and it operates satellite offices across various regions in the Philippines.
Purpose of DOST
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) implements various initiatives and collaborations to develop policies focused on science and technology in the Philippines. It ensures that frontline services are provided in all of its offices across the country. The primary objective of establishing this agency is to oversee and promote the advancement of science and technology in the Philippines.
Functions and Responsibilities
The functions and responsibilities of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) were enhanced and intensified when it became a part of the Cabinet. After being included in the Cabinet, the new agency was given the additional responsibility, as outlined in the executive order, to guide, lead, and coordinate the scientific and technical activities in the country, with the aim of achieving maximum economic and social benefits for the people.
List of DOST Programs
Check out this list of programs under DOST:
1. Balik Scientist Program (BSP)
The Balik Scientist Program, established by President Rodrigo R. Duterte through the enactment of Republic Act 11035, aims to encourage Filipino scientists, technologists, and experts working abroad to return to the Philippines and contribute their knowledge and expertise to the country. This program plays a vital role in promoting scientific, agro-industrial, and economic development, as well as in enhancing the human capital in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.
The key objectives of the Balik Scientist Program are as follows:
- Knowledge sharing and capacity building: The program facilitates the transfer of knowledge, skills, and technology from Filipino scientists and experts abroad to local counterparts. This exchange helps strengthen the scientific and technological capabilities of Filipino institutions and promotes the development of human resources in the country.
- Research and development (R&D) collaboration: By engaging Filipino scientists and experts from different parts of the world, the program promotes collaboration in research and development activities. This collaboration contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge, innovation, and the creation of new technologies within the Philippines.
- Technology transfer and commercialization: The Balik Scientist Program encourages the transfer and commercialization of technologies developed by returning scientists and experts. This process facilitates the adoption of innovative solutions in various sectors, leading to improved productivity, competitiveness, and economic growth.
- Networking and partnerships: The program fosters connections and partnerships between local institutions and Filipino scientists overseas. These collaborations enhance the exchange of ideas, promote interdisciplinary research, and facilitate the integration of global best practices into local scientific endeavors.
Overall, the Balik Scientist Program serves as a platform for nurturing and harnessing the expertise of Filipino scientists abroad, ensuring that their knowledge and skills are utilized for the benefit of the Philippines. By promoting collaboration, knowledge transfer, and technological advancements, the program contributes to the country’s scientific, agro-industrial, and economic development, while also strengthening its human capital in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.
- Reverse the effect of the brain drain
- Promote knowledge sharing
- Strengthen S & T capabilities
- Enhance the Technology capabilities of the countryThe BSP (Biotechnology Society of the Philippines) focuses on several key areas of interest. These areas include Agriculture and Food, Biotechnology, Disaster Mitigation and Management, Environment and Natural Resources, Electronics, Energy, Genomics, Health, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Manufacturing, Nanotechnology, and Semiconductor. The society engages in research, development, and promotion of advancements in these fields to contribute to the overall progress and well-being of the Philippines.
2. Biosafety Clearing-House of the Philippines (BCH Pilipinas)
In 2008, the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP), along with the Departments of Science and Technology (DOST), Agriculture (DA), Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and Health (DOH), proudly announced the official launch of the BCH Pilipinas: The Philippine Biosafety Clearing House (BCH).
The establishment of BCH Pilipinas was in accordance with Article 20, Paragraph 1 of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. The main objectives of BCH Pilipinas are to facilitate the exchange of scientific, technical, environmental, and legal information, as well as experiences with Living Modified Organisms (LMOs). Additionally, it aims to assist Parties in implementing the Protocol while considering the specific needs of developing country Parties. BCH Pilipinas serves as a comprehensive platform, acting as a “one-stop-shop” for biosafety-related information from the Philippines. This includes providing access to laws and regulations, risk assessments on permitted LMOs for food, feed, and processing, a national report, as well as information on competent national authorities and contacts related to LMOs.
BCH Pilipinas plays a vital role in promoting transparency, cooperation, and the responsible use of LMOs in the Philippines. By providing a centralized repository of information, it supports informed decision-making and helps ensure the safe handling, transport, use, and transfer of LMOs. The collaboration among the NCBP and the relevant government departments highlights the country’s commitment to biosafety and its active participation in the international community’s efforts to regulate and monitor LMOs.
3. DOST Biosafety Committee (DOST-BC)
The Department of Science and Technology Biosafety Committee (DOST-BC) was established successfully in 2009. Alongside the Biosafety Committees of the Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Environment and Natural Resources, the National Biosafety Framework (NBF) was created to assist relevant government departments in addressing the challenges posed by rapid advancements in modern biotechnology.
The Philippines places great importance on utilizing the best available scientific knowledge to evaluate the safety of all contemporary biotechnology practices and products. This commitment to safety assessment is a top priority for the country. In 1990, Executive Order 430 was issued to establish a framework for ensuring the safety of experiments involving genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This was further reinforced by the issuance of Executive Order 514 in 2006, which formalized the National Biosafety Framework. This framework defined the responsibilities of government entities involved in GMO biosafety assessment and extended its scope beyond agricultural crops.
The establishment of the DOST-BC and the National Biosafety Framework signifies the Philippines’ dedication to implementing robust biosafety measures and ensuring the responsible use of biotechnology in the country.
4. DOST Grants-in-Aid Program (DOST-GIA)
The Department of Science and Technology’s Grants-in-Aid Program (DOST-GIA) aims to safeguard and enhance the scientific and technological capabilities of the country. By providing financial support to S&T programs and projects, the program strives to facilitate sustainable economic growth in the long run.
The primary objective of the GIA program is to contribute to the productivity and quality of life for all Filipinos by fostering the creation and promotion of innovative and qualified technologies through support for relevant science and technology endeavors. Additionally, the program seeks to boost the involvement of various S&T sectors, particularly in research and development (R&D), by encouraging the transfer and utilization of technology, facilitating the dissemination of information, advocating for S&T, and fostering connections.
If you possess expertise as a Filipino individual, whether from the public or private sector, you have the opportunity to request GIA funding from the Department of Science and Technology and its grant-making units. The key criterion for consideration is that the initiatives should benefit Filipinos and be based within the Philippines.
5. National Committee of Biosafety of the Philippines
The Biosafety Guidelines in the Philippines cover a wide range of activities related to genetic engineering and the handling of potentially dangerous organisms that may pose risks to humans and the environment.
In the late 1980s, scientists from the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) expressed concerns about biosafety as they started utilizing modern biotechnology tools in their research. This was a time when genetic engineering and recombinant DNA technology were emerging as promising tools in the field of genetic research. In response to these concerns, a memorandum of understanding was signed in 1987 between then-UPLB Chancellor Raul P. De Guzman and then-IRRI Director General M.S. Swaminathan. This memorandum established a Joint Committee on Biosafety with the following objectives:
- Review research proposals submitted by UPLB and IRRI scientists who plan to conduct studies that require specific safety precautions. The committee would then propose either granting permission or rejecting the proposals to the respective institutional leadership.
- Serve as a central repository of knowledge on experimental procedures based on recombinant DNA technology. The committee would gather and disseminate information on these procedures to ensure that researchers have access to the latest biosafety guidelines and protocols.
- Consult with countries that already have established biosafety legislation to gather insights and experiences. By doing so, the UPLB and IRRI could develop and implement relevant biosafety guidelines for their current biotechnology research.
- Conduct periodic reviews of ongoing studies in modern biotechnology, focusing particularly on research involving fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases, insect pests, and recombinant DNA. The goal is to ensure that the highest safety standards are upheld throughout the research process.
These Biosafety Guidelines and the Joint Committee on Biosafety were established to ensure that research involving genetic engineering and potentially hazardous organisms in the Philippines adheres to strict safety standards. By doing so, the aim is to protect both human health and the environment while promoting advancements in the field of biotechnology research.
To learn more information about this government agency,
Frequently Asked Questions
Please check out these common questions and answers about the DOST agency:
1. What are other DOST Services?
“DOST provides various services, including the Balik Scientist Program application, Science Foundation certification, Grants in Aid Program application, Joint Scientific Research Program application, Accreditation and Certification services, and S&T Scholars program.”
2. Does DOST provide scholarship programs?
Answer: Yes, DOST is not only limited to science and technology, it also provides S&T Scholarship.
3. What is S&T Scholarship?
The S&T Undergraduate Scholarships Program aims to inspire and attract talented Filipino youth to pursue rewarding careers in science and technology. Its objective is to ensure a steady and competent pool of S&T professionals to drive the country’s progress.
4. Does DOST support inventions?
Yes, certainly! The DOST-Regional TAPI’s Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) is indeed held biennially to acknowledge inventors and researchers from different regions, including students. RICE provides a platform for individuals to showcase their innovative creations and contribute to the advancement of science and technology. It serves as an avenue for recognition and appreciation of their efforts in developing novel solutions and inventions.
5. What is the support provided to entrepreneurs by DOST?
DOST, the Department of Science and Technology, has been actively supporting local entrepreneurs by granting them access to laboratories and equipment funding to facilitate product development. Additionally, they have collaborated with OneSTore Ph to provide a marketing push for these entrepreneurs. Through these initiatives, DOST aims to empower and assist local businesses in their growth and success.
6. Is DOST part of the government?
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), also known as Kagawaran ng Agham at Teknolohiya in Filipino, is the executive branch of the Philippine government that oversees the coordination of science and technology initiatives in the country. Its main responsibilities include formulating policies and implementing projects related to science and technology.
The DOST plays a crucial role in promoting the development and utilization of science and technology in various sectors of the Philippine society. It supports research and development activities, encourages innovation, and fosters collaboration between different stakeholders, including government agencies, educational institutions, industry, and the general public.
One of the primary goals of the DOST is to harness the potential of science and technology to contribute to the country’s socio-economic development. It focuses on areas such as agriculture, healthcare, information and communications technology, energy, environment, and disaster risk reduction. Through its various programs and initiatives, the department aims to improve the quality of life of Filipinos and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
In addition to its role in project coordination and policy formulation, the DOST also oversees several specialized agencies and institutions. These include the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, and the Science Education Institute, among others.
The Department of Science and Technology plays a vital role in advancing scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and overall development in the Philippines. By fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and technological advancement, the DOST contributes to the nation’s progress and its pursuit of a sustainable and prosperous future.
7. Is there a qualifying exam for the DOST scholarship?
To qualify for the scholarship, candidates need to meet the following criteria: successfully pass the 2021 S&T Undergraduate Scholarships Examination and be admitted into a Bachelor of Science program in one of the priority fields of study. The program must be offered by a state university or college, a private higher education institution recognized by the Commission on Higher Education as a Center of Excellence or Center of Development, or an institution with at least FAAP Level III accreditation for the specific Bachelor of Science program they plan to enroll in.
Summary
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) plays a crucial role in our government and country. Emerging science and technology are vital for a nation as they contribute to the progress of the economy.
The DOST is not only responsible for formulating new policies and programs related to technological advancement, but it also provides support to entrepreneurs and students.
