Sen. Bam Aquino urged government and the private sector to extend support to Filipino scientists and innovators as they can help find solutions to pressing problems like poverty, weak education system and even the drug problem.

“Our scientists, innovators and researchers need all the support they can get from us. Kailangan nila ang ating suporta upang makatulong sila sa pagresolba ng mga problemang kinakaharap ng ating bansa,” said Sen. Bam, chairman of the Committee on Science and Technology.

 Through the combined efforts of the government and the private sector, Sen. Bam said Filipino scientists and innovators will be inspired to work hard for the country’s development.

 Recently, the Senate tackled the three measures sponsored and co-authored by Sen. Bam in the plenary that aim to extend needed assistance to innovative start-ups and benefits to support Filipino scientists and researchers – Innovative Startup Act, Balik Scientist Act and Magna Carta for Scientists.

 If enacted into law, innovative startups will enjoy benefits such as tax breaks and grants and other forms of assistance, including a faster process for business registration.

Innovative start-ups could also avail of technical assistance and training programs, free use of equipment, facilities and support for patenting or licensing of their product through the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines.

The Balik Scientist Act and Magna Carta for Scientists both aim to ramp up support to Filipino scientists, engineers and researchers through financial benefits and other incentives.

  “We hope the government, the private sector and the public can have a greater appreciation for our scientists and innovators,” said Sen. Bam.