THE BUDGET for the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) scholarship programs has been increased to P8.67 billion under the proposed 2027 national budget.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Marcos directed the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), led by Secretary Kim Robert de Leon, to increase funding for DOST scholarship programs.

The DBM said the proposed FY 2027 allocation is P360 million, or 4.34 percent, higher than the previous year.

Of the total amount, P7.55 billion will be allocated to the DOST-Science Education Institute for undergraduate and graduate scholarships and specialized training, while P1.12 billion will be earmarked for the Philippine Science High School System for STEM-focused secondary education.

“Sa pamamagitan nito, naipapakita ng Pangulo ang pagpapahalaga ng pamahalaan sa mahalagang papel ng Filipino Scientists, Researchers at Innovators sa research, innovation, policy-making, national competitiveness at pagresolba sa mga pangunahing hamon ng bansa,” Castro said.

The increased funding is expected to benefit 67,504 DOST scholars nationwide, up from 65,097 scholars in 2026.