President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Wednesday urged Filipino scientists and researchers to stay in the country, noting the importance of science and technology to the country's development.

"I encourage our Filipino scientists, researchers, inventors, and innovators, to continue sharing your expertise, especially with young people," Marcos said during the opening ceremonies for the 2022 National Science and Technology Week.

Reiterating his call for unity, Marcos asked them to partner with the government and dedicate their knowledge and skills and work harmoniously to uplift the lives of the Filipinos.

"I urge you to stay in the country as you pursue your career. We will continue to support you and continue to look to you to be active partners of the government," he added.

He cited their potential to help the government take further strides toward a more inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable nation.

Marcos assured the scientists of government support, saying that his administration would back initiatives in pushing for science and technology, as well as research and development-based solutions to the country's problems, especially in the agriculture sector.

"I also urge the DoST (Department of Science and Technology) and all other concerned agencies to allocate resources to institutions that carry out research and development," Marcos said.

He challenged DoST and their partner institutions to provide more scholarships to Filipino students to develop a bigger pool of scientists, researchers and innovators in the country.

"Through this, we will institute a scholarship program, specifically for STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) students and this will not be limited to those who have shown their capabilities, their ability and how they deserve these scholarships here in the Philippines but to any institution that they are accepted to abroad," Marcos said.

He added: "So this is important so that they continue to develop our workforce, we continue to develop our capabilities, and our knowledge."

Marcos also acknowledged the efforts of the DoST's attached agencies and regional offices for continuously implementing programs that create solutions to address the country's problems on food security, job creation, health, education, and climate change adaptation, among others.

One notable example, Marcos said, is the GeoRiskPH Integrated System, which is the country's platform for data gathering, sharing, and analyzing hazards and risk information.

Other projects include the CRADLE and SETUP programs, which are designed to help companies as well as micro-, small-, and medium-scale enterprises to improve their products, processes and services to boost their productivity and competitiveness.

"Your efforts do not only generate development opportunities for young scientists, but they also contribute to our shared goal of enhancing the quality of Filipino life," he said.