MANILA — Millennial Senator Camille Villar is pushing for stronger government investment in education and innovation, saying it is time to empower the next generation of Filipino talents to be globally competitive in science and technology.
Villar, the youngest senator of the 20th Congress, has been reviewing the proposed 2026 budgets of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), its attached agencies, and the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) — with a focus on programs that can expand scholarship support and promote innovation among young Filipinos.
Villar said that while the Committee on Finance is still finalizing its report, she hopes to see greater funding for science scholars, such as those under the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS), which has long produced some of the country’s best young scientists and engineers. With a proposal of additional 300M for PSHSS or known as “Pi-say,” she noted that improving scholarship benefits and investing in research training will help keep Filipino talents at home and strengthen the nation’s competitiveness.
“There’s no better time than now to push for a new generation of Filipino talents,” Villar said. “In a world where science and technology are evolving faster than ever, we must make sure our young people are not left behind. When we empower them here in the Philippines, they can thrive and drive our nation’s growth.”
Villar also pointed out that many young Filipinos already have the determination and skill to excel in science and technology but often lack consistent institutional and financial support. She stressed that this must change if the Philippines is to build a future-ready workforce capable of leading innovation in the region.
“Science high schools across the country are home to some of the brightest minds of our generation. Strengthening our support for these institutions means investing in our country’s potential to become a center of innovation,” she said.
The senator emphasized that developing homegrown expertise in science and technology is essential to sustainable national progress. Strengthened partnerships between government, schools, and the private sector, she added, will allow scholars and innovators to transform ideas into industries and create opportunities for inclusive growth.
“Education and innovation are the twin engines of a stronger Philippines,” Villar said. “If we give our youth the right tools, support, and opportunities, they will not just adapt to the future — they will shape it.”
