Jennifer Marie J. Yang, MD

Honored and privileged to be among so many intelligent people at the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) 12th Annual Balik Scientist Program Convention at The Manila Hotel yesterday (October 29, 2026). The DOST’s Balik Scientist Program [“balik” is Filipino for “return”] aims to reverse the country’s brain drain by bringing Filipinos and foreigners of Filipino descent to the Philippines. Grateful to the University of the Philippines Manila (College of Medicine) for being my host institution providing physical and human resources for facilities and administrative support.

The three major sectoral planning and research councils under the DOST each take turns hosting the convention. This year’s host is the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), while the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (PCAARRD) and my “home council” Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) will lead in subsequent years. After the plenary sessions and individual awarding ceremonies, attendees moved into parallel tracks corresponding to their councils for more focused talks and a pinning ceremony.

PS: I love this long embroidered barong Tagalog vest (Alegre by Techie Hagedorn). Very versatile! Also (hand)washable, no need to dry clean. It comes with a sash that I did not use.