Press Release
February 15, 2011

BETTER COMPENSATION FOR RP SCIENTISTS, ENGINEERS--ANGARA

To address the increasing problem of "brain drain" in the Philippines, Edgardo J. Angara urged both private and public companies to boost their compensation packages offered to Filipino professionals in the fields of science and engineering.

According to a study by the Department of Science and Technology's (DOST) Science Education Institute (SEI), the numbers of science and technology workers leaving to work abroad had increased by 148% in the last decade.

"Although our economy has been gradually improving, we still can't blame our scientists, researchers and academicians for seeking better-paying jobs abroad--right now there are simply more opportunities for them in other countries which will let them provide for their families," said Angara, who chairs the Congressional Commission on Science, Technology and Engineering (COMSTE).

Around 24,500 white-collar employees, mostly health professionals and engineers left the country in 2009. According to Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, this is proof of the skill and competitiveness of Filipinos in the global market.

"So many countries hire Filipino doctors, nurses, scientists and engineers--testifying to the world-class abilities of our professionals. However, this would have a negative impact in their sectors here in the Philippines because of the dwindling number of qualified leaders.

The bottom line is, we must make a concerted effort to make these fine minds stay in the Philippines where they are sorely needed. Perhaps higher salaries, better benefits and opportunities for further training and education would convince them to work for our country instead," asserted Angara.

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