Science and technology, along with research and development has always been at the very core of the nation’s progress. Having said that, it is the Filiinos’ good luck that there is a dedicated government agency responsible for the country’s scientific and technological development and funding—the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Also Read: List of DOST Scholarship Programs
In this article, we looked at DOST, the country’s premiere science and technology body, along with its functions, roles, and training programs and other services that Filipinos in and out of the country can enjoy.
What is DOST?
The Department of Science and Technology, otherwise known as DOST, is the Philippines’ premiere science and technology body. It was originally established as the National Science and Development Board (NSDB) on June 13, 1958, with the mandate to create “A competent and competitive science and technology community with a social conscience.” It was later reorganized into the National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA) on March 17, 1981, before being elevated into a full cabinet stature as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on January 30, 1987.
Since officially becoming the Department of Science and Technology, DOST has charged ahead with the double mandate of providing central direction, leadership, and coordination of all scientific and technological activities. At the same time, the agency has been at the helm, pursuing the state policy, formulating plans, implementing programs and projects, and overseeing the development of human resources by offering training and education. On top of that, the agency also launched research grants and programs to ensure that the government will never run out of skilled manpower when needed to support national development.
It also comes with the following attached agencies:
- Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI)
- Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI)
- Forest Products Research and Development Institute
- Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI)
- Information and Communications Technology Office
- Metals Industry Research and Development Center
- National Academy of Science and Technology
- National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP)
- Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)
- Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD)
- Philippine Council for Health Research and Development
- Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development
- Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)
- Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI)
- Philippine Science High School System
- Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI)
- Science and Technology Information Institute
- Science Education Institute (SEI)
- Technology Application and Promotion Institute
- Technology Resource Center
DOST Organizational Structure
DOST is led by the Secretary of Science and Technology (Philippines) along with four undersecretaries and three assistant secretaries with title listed as follows:
- Undersecretary for Scientific and Technological Services
- Undersecretary for Research and Development
- Undersecretary for Regional Operations
- Undersecretary for Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change
- Assistant Secretary for Finance and Legal Affairs
- Assistant Secretary for International Cooperation
- Assistant Secretary for Administration
Roles and Functions of DOST
As an executive agency of the Philippine government, the DOST functions as the premiere body in charge of the following responsibilities:
- Pursuing the state policy of supporting local scientific and technological efforts
- Developing and nurturing local skills and capabilities to achieve technological self-reliance
- Encouraging greater private sector participation in research and development
- Creating, adopting, monitoring, and implementing a comprehensive National Science and Technology Plan
- Promoting, assisting, and undertaking scientific and technological research and development in prime areas vital to the country’s development
- Promoting the development of indigenous technology along with the adaptation and innovation of suitable imported technology so the country may undertake technology development up to the commercial stages
- Undertaking design and engineering works to complement research and development functions
- Promoting, assisting, and rolling out the results of scientific and technological research and development to the end-users
- Promoting, assisting, and offering technological services needed by agriculture, industry, transport, and the general public
- Developing and maintaining an information system and data bank on science and technology
- Formulating and implementing programs for strengthening scientific and technological capabilities through manpower training, infrastructure-, and institution-building;
- Promoting public consciousness in science and technology, and
- Undertaking policy research, technology assessment, and feasibility and technical studies.
DOST Programs and Services
As the agency mandated to further the development of science and technology and ensure that the country and the Filipino people get the much needed research and developmental support when it comes to nation-building, DOST offers the following services, programs, and projects, both from the central and regional offices as well as their attached agencies.
Services – Central Offices
Some of the DOST services available at the DOST Central Office include:
The Balik Scientist Program (BSP)
The program originated from RA 11035, otherwise known as the Balik Scientist Act. It was launched in an effort to reverse the increasing incidence of brain drain in the country. Just like the law crafted by DOST, the program aims to recall the scientists, technologists, and experts in science, technology and innovation in an effort to strengthen the S & T capabilities of the country. At the same time, the program will being back experienced talents who can help accelerate the flow of technologies and promote scientific, agro-industrial, and economic development. It is also an initiative meant to promote knowledge-sharing and the development of human capital in the fields of science, technology and innovation.
Certification of S&T-oriented Private Foundations, and Specific Research and Development Projects
Mandated by Republic Act No. 2067 or the Science Act of 1958, the DOST S&T Foundation Unit offers certifications, technical advice, and support for the development of national biosafety policy. It also provides guidance for regulatory frameworks for biotechnology products, and ensure effective implementation of policies related to biotechnology. On top of that, DOST provides S&T-oriented private foundations certifications that are useful for tax exemption purposes. The department also implements specific research and development projects for scientific advancement to avail of and integrate into the programs of the Department of Science and Technology in accordance with the provisions of Section 24 of the above-mentioned law.
DOST Grants-in-Aid Program (DOST-GIA)
The DOST Grants-in-Aid Program (DOST-GIA) is one of the most prestigious awards offered by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). This DOST program offers grants for the implementation of programs or projects identified as a DOST-priority in an effort to support S & T activities classified in the General Appropriations Act.
The program offer the following types of grants:
- DOST-GIA awards
Under the DOST-GIA program, outstanding Filipino residents of the Philippines possessing a Ph.D. degree either in Science or Technology and doing research work in the field of science and technology for at least five years may become awardees or beneficiaries of the program.
- DOST Outstanding Scientist Awards (OSA)
The DOST Outstanding Scientist Award (OSA), on the other hand, recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to science and technology in the country through their research works or achievements in their own science and technology-related fields.
The OSA also has two categories for the awards:
- Young Scientists’ OSA (YSOA)
- Senior Scientists’ OSA (SSOA)
Depending upon the category, the requirements may vary, but both OSA awards require grant applicants who are Filipino citizens with at least 15 years of experience in their respective fields.
National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP)
One of the services offered by DOST to the public is the creation of the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP) in 1998. This committee which was established by virtue of R.A. 8525 or the Philippine Biosafety Law, was launched in an effort to ensure safe and responsible use of modern biotechnology in various fields including agriculture and food and health systems.
The committee was formed by various government agencies, academic institutions, and NGOs and their main function is to deal with issues related to biosafety. They also offer:
- Guidance and advice on risk assessment and risk management plans, biosafety regulations, regulations on field testing, etc.
- Review of applications for release or importation of living modified organisms, and
- Coordination services with other national committees involved in biosafety issues worldwide
Application to the DOST-JSPS Joint Scientific Research Program
The DOST – JSPS Joint Scientific Research Program is an inter-institutional cooperative arrangement initiated by then National Science Development Board (now the Department of Science and Technology) in partnership with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) on March 15, 1979. The bilateral program was designed to help establish sustainable relations and create mutually beneficial high potential researches between the two countries in the fields of natural sciences, social sciences and humanities.
Under the program, both the Philippines and Japan promote scientific research through exchange of scientists, scientific seminars, and dissertation and degree research under the joint guidance of Filipino and Japanese advisers. The DOST-JSPS Joint Scientific Research Program also aims to foster the same relations while looking after the next generation researchers of both countries.
Cert. of Eligibility of Non-DOST System S&T Personnel under R.A. No. 8439
This program aims to offer certifications to eligible Filipino personnel in non-DOST S&T agencies for appointment as DOST System S&T Officers. Under the program, DOST offers training and orientation on DOST policies and programs, as well as lessons on how to conduct research effectively.
Services – Attached Agencies and Regional Offices
Just like the DOST Central Office, the Attached Agencies and DOST Regional Offices also offers specific services to the Filipino people which include the following:
Accreditation and Certification
The attached agencies and regional offices of the DOST also accredits and certifies the quality of S&T personnel and research institutions nationwide. Just like the DOST Central office, they also support researchers’ professionalization through training and development programs. However, the DOST Regional Offices are the ones who are solely responsible for implementing policies and providing technical assistance to local government units in their respective jurisdiction at the regional level.
S&T Scholarships
In keeping up with its mandate to support the people and the development of science and technology in the country, DOST also offers grants and funds to S&T scholars through scholarships and fellowships. Under the DOST Scholarship Program, DOST hopes to attract and retain outstanding Filipino students, particularly in postgraduate studies in S&T-related fields abroad, particularly those that will contribute to the country’s development. It also supports research grantees and postdoctoral scholars who are working on projects that are relevant to the country’s needs.
DOST Wide S&T Services
The DOST also provides S&T services to the public. For the common people, these services include the following:
- Provision of information through the DOST website, publications, and media releases
- Development of human resources in the S&T field through training programs, scholarships and fellowships
- Facilitation of technology transfer through technology commercialization assistance
- Support for R&D activities by private companies, non-government organizations, and other government agencies
Regional Offices’ S&T Services
The DOST regional offices also provide the same DOST-wide S&T services to the public. The S&T services offered by the DOST Regional offices include:
- Providing information through various channels including the DOST website, publications, and media releases
- Offering training programs, scholarships and fellowships to develop human resources
- Technology transfer facilitated through the DOST technology commercialization assistance
- Launching of research and development activities in support to private companies, non-government organizations and other government agencies
Other DOST Programs and Projects
Biosafety Clearing-House of the Philippines (BCH Pilipinas)
Biosafety Clearing-House of the Philippines or BCH Pilipinas is a project initiated by DOST in collaboration with the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). It was designed to serve as a repository for applications and a clearing house for biosafety information on genetically engineered (GE) crops. BCH Pilipinas also doubles as the focal point for communication between all stakeholders, from the farmers’ groups to the scientists, regulators, and the public regarding these GE crops and applications.
DOST Biosafety Committee (DOST-BC)
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the agency of the Philippine Government mandated to formulate policies and implement programs that will accelerate the development of science and technology.
DOST Biosafety Committee (DOST-BC) is a Committee of the DOST Council composed of representatives from different agencies with responsibilities on biosafety and biosecurity. It was established by DOST Administrative Order No. 2010-002 dated 16 January 2010. The main function of the DOST-BC is to coordinate among different agencies on matters related to biosafety and biosecurity, provide technical advice and support for the development of national biosafety policy, provide guidance for regulatory frameworks for biotechnology products, and ensure effective implementation of policies related to biotechnology.
DOST Scholarship Programs
Other than the programs and services offered by DOST, it also offers, through one of its attached agencies, the Science Education Institute (SEI), programs that are meant to nurture the young ones for the sustainability and continuity of scientific and technological development in the country.
Listed below are some of the available DOST Scholarships that you may want to consider applying for:
S&T Undergraduate Scholarships
The S&T Undergraduate Scholarships Program aims to entice talented Filipino youths to pursue careers in science and technology and ensure that the government will have adequate supply of qualified human resources.
The DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program
RA No. 2067, otherwise known as DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program, is the former NSDB or NSTA Scholarship. It’s a scholarship program offered by DOST awarded to students with high aptitude in science and mathematics who wish to pursue a career in the fields of science and technology.
RA 7687
Republic Act No. 7687, otherwise known as the “Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994”, is yet another S&T Undergraduate Scholarship Program offered by DOST. This program is designed for talented and deserving students from families whose socio-economic status satisfies the set values of certain indicators set by the department. Applicants are also required to take exams and upon passing, they must pursue collegiate studies taking courses in priority fields of study in the basic sciences, engineering, other applied sciences, and science and mathematics teaching.
Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS)
Aside from the S&T Undergraduate Scholarships Program, DOST also offers the Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) Program. This scholarship program is reserved for talented and deserving students in their third year of college who are pursuing degree programs in the areas of science and technology.
Just like the S&T Undergraduate Scholarship Program, the JLSS also offers the scholarship in different types.
The DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program
RA 7687
RA 10612
Republic Act No. 10612 is yet another scholarship offered by DOST. This program is reserved for graduates in the sciences, mathematics and engineering who are to teach science and mathematics. With the support of this program, DOST hopes to strengthen the country’s science and technology education in secondary schools throughout the country.
Graduate Scholarships
Aside from the undergraduate scholarships, DOST also offers grants to students pursuing graduate studies. Some of the graduate scholarships the offer include:
Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program (ASTHRDP)
The DOST-SEI, an attached agency of DOST, also offers scholarship grants to qualified males and females who wish to pursue Master’s and Doctoral programs or straight in priority S&T areas under the Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program (ASTHRDP).
Under the program, DOST hopes to improve the country’s global competitiveness and capability to innovate through Science and Technology (S&T). The program also hopes to accelerate the production of high-level human resources, especially those that are needed for Research & Development (R&D) in the fields of S&T.
Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME)
This graduate program is a product of collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) and the National Consortium in Graduate Science and Mathematics Education (NCGSME). Under the Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME), male and female applicants may apply for a grant to pursue either a Master’s or a Doctorate degree in Science and Mathematics Education to improve the quality and accelerate the development of a critical mass of experts in science and mathematics education.
Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT)
The Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT) is a consortium of eight member universities in the country that offer master’s and doctoral degrees in various engineering fields. This Consortium is composed of the following academic institutions:
- Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU),
- Central Luzon State University (CLSU),
- De La Salle University (DLSU),
- Mapua University (MU),
- Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT),
- University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD),
- University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), and
- University of San Carlos (USC)
The consortium was formed in an effort to implement high-impact research aligned with the development plans of the country. On top of that, this is DOST’s way of upgrading the quality of practicing engineers by developing engineering colleges along with a culture of research and development.
Foreign Graduate Scholarship Program
The Foreign Graduate Scholarships Program pioneered by DOST-SEI for Specialized Priority Fields in Science and Technology offers scholarship grants to talented and deserving students trying to obtain an MS or a PhD degree in science and engineering. The program grantees are required to enroll and develop in a reputable foreign university or recognized higher education/research institution. The program is DOST’s way of helping upgrade the country’s research and technological innovation capabilities in the area of advanced sciences and emerging technologies while improving human resources that will advance the country’s global competitiveness and economic development.
UAlberta S&T Graduate Scholarship Program
The DOST-SEI-UAlberta S&T Graduate Scholarship Program is a scholarship program offered to students who intend to pursue graduate studies in priority S&T fields at the University of Alberta in Alberta, Canada. It is a joint program between DOST-SEI scholarships and UAlberta meant to create a support mechanism for master’s and doctoral students from the Philippines to study and conduct research at Alberta.
PhilFrance DOST Fellowship Program
The PhilFrance DOST Fellowship Program is a program aimed at fostering the mobility of Filipino professionals working in academic, research or government institutions in the French Republic. Under the program, grantees are selected on the basis of academic excellence so they may pursue a Master’s or Doctorate degree in public higher education establishments under the Ministry of National Education, Higher Education and Research of the French Republic.
Science and Technology Regional Alliance of Universities for National Development
Talented, deserving, and qualified males and females who wish to pursue Master’s and Doctoral programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses including Science and Mathematics Education are offered scholarship grants under the Science and Technology Regional Alliance of Universities for National Development (STRAND) to strengthen the faculty profile by training high-level human resources in the in STEM priority fields.
DOST Scholarship for OFW Dependents
DOST also offers a scholarship grant to specifically support the dependents of our Modern Heroes, the OFWs. Under the program, DOST offers qualified OFW dependents a maximum of Php 60,000.00 annual cash aid for use in any type of education including a four-year college education of OFW children. Grantees are selected via a national qualifying exam. Only the top 400 qualifiers of the exam are considered, while some are also selected on the merit of their academic performance.
Video: What Exactly is DOST?
Learn about what people think and know about DOST and make sure you know. Watch this video from Youtube user carl2blue and have a laugh.
Here’s the full video:
Frequently Asked Questions )
1. What is DOST?
DOST stands for the Department of Science and Technology, the country’s premiere science and technology body launched to direct, lead, and coordinate the country’s scientific and technological efforts in accordance with national developmental trends.
2. What is the role of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the Philippines?
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is a national agency dedicated to watching, regulating, and supplementing the best possible scientific and technological services to the country. It also has project and programs in place, along with the necessary tools and resources to support the development and implementation of S&T policies and programs.
3. How does DOST help people?
As the leading agency in charge of S&T and R&D, DOST has scientific and technological programs and services that are geared towards the development of economic and social benefits for the people.
For entrepreneurs: DOST has created the special privilege—providing access to laboratories and innovation hubs, as well as equipment financing to help local entrepreneurs with product development. DOST offers support to local Philippine products with a marketing boost from OneSTore Ph.
4. What are the major development programs in science and technology in the Philippines?
The DOST has seven research and development (R&D) organizations that are part of the public research sector. These organizations are made up of various institutions, in an effort to work on various areas such as food and nutrition, engineering, and scientific research.
5. Is it hard to qualify for a DOST scholarship?
A lot of students think that the DOST scholarship exam is very hard. The truth is, it is easier than the UPCAT,the UP College Entrance Exams, though it is more challenging than most entrance exams given by other schools.. With the right preparation, materials, and strategies, interested DOST scholars can easily apply for and ace the exam.
6. What are the perks of being a DOST scholar?
DOST offers one of the highest cash grants and scholarship allowance in the Philippines. For undergraduate scholars, not only do they receive financial assistance of Php 40,000.00 per academic year to cover tuition and other school fees. They also get a monthly living allowance amounting to Php 7,000.00 per month,a book allowance of Php10,000.00 per academic year, and other scholarship privileges..
7. How would I know if I successfully made it as a DOST grantee?
The results of all scholarship selection, be it for an undergraduate or graduate program scholarship, is publicly announced on the official website of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). All qualified students will receive an email notification.
8. What are the requirements for DOST scholarships?
Applicants for the scholarship must be natural-born Filipinos of good moral character. They must be male or female in good health and good grades. Application is generally open to students in the STEM strand. If you are in the non-STEM strand, however, you may also apply for the scholarship provided that you belong to the top 5% of your graduating class.
Summary
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the Philippines’ premiere agency for scientific research and development. As the agency mandated to “promote research and development, application, and utilization, communication, and information dissemination regarding science and technology towards national development.” DOST also has programs and projects intended for the benefit of the Filipino people and the country, especially related to the fields of science and technology.
The department also offers information, programs, and services that will help the country keep up with competitive global scientific and technological advancements. It also offers scientific research and development support to institutions and organizations in the Philippines, in an effort to new discoveries and innovations that can improve the quality of life for Filipinos here and abroad as well as the country’s economic development.
Furthermore, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) also offers and provide training programs for workers who are abroad.
For more information on the DOST services and programs, the DOST has central and regional offices that can provide employment assistance for OFWs who want to come home or find new jobs here in the country.
Contact Information
To learn more, you may reach out to DOST via the following contact information:
Department of Science and Technology – Central Office (DOST-CO)
Office Address: DOST Building, Gen. Santos Avenue Bicutan, Taguig City Metro Manila 1631 Philippines
Tel. no.: (632) 8837-20-71 to 82 (632) 8837-2937
Email address: osec@dost.gov.ph, email@dost.gov.ph
DOST website: http://www.dost.gov.ph
DOST Helpdesk: https://helpdesk.dost.gov.ph/
DOST Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DOSTph/
If you need more information on DOST-JSPS Joint Scientific Research Program, please feel free to reach out to:
International Technology Cooperation Unit (ITCU)
Office Address: Room 301, DOST Main Building
Trunk line No. 837-2071 to 82 local 2001
Telefax No. 838-8376
Email address: dostjsps@yahoo.com ; jsps@dost.gov.ph
Website: http://www.jsps.gov.jp/english, http://itcu.dost.gov.ph