Building the “Suprastructure” Elevating Philippine Innovation through Science and Technology Human Capital Development

Gisela P. Concepcion
Professor Emerita
University of the Philippines Diliman

2025

Policy Insight

The policy insight addresses the critical need for significant investment in science and technology (S&T) human capital development in the Philippines. The proposal highlights a strong correlation between research and development (R&D) and GDP per capita, emphasizing why R&D should be a top national priority. The Philippines has lagged behind other ASEAN countries in S&T investments over the past half-century, with a current low number of scientists per million population (174 pmp in 2022) and gross expenditure on R&D (0.32% of GDP in 2018). To address these challenges, the proposal outlines core targets for the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD), aiming to increase the number of researchers to 1,500 pmp and GERD to 1.8% of GDP by 2040. To achieve this, this policy insight suggests a definitive, massive investment in “Suprastructure”, which includes the establishment of the Philippine Advanced Technology Innovation Institute for Industry (PATIII) and a substantial postgraduate study abroad program. These initiatives are aligned with national priorities such as agriculture and food security, and climate change, with the goal of transforming ideas into reality and driving socio-economic transformation through innovation. The proposal draws inspiration from successful models in countries like Germany, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea, which have heavily invested in S&T human capital development and fostered strong links between research, industry, and economic prosperity.

Suprastructure, human capital development, science and technology investments, Philippine Advanced Technology Innovation Institute for Industry, National Innovation Council, National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document

Concepcion, Gisela P. 2025. “Building the “Suprastructure”: Elevating Philippine Innovation through S&T Human Capital Development.” Philippine Journal of Public Policy: Interdisciplinary Development Perspectives 2025: 1-7.