16 December, 1976

TODAY IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

President Ferdinand Marcos created the National Scientist Award to give due recognition to the achievements of Filipino scientists in the field of science and technology.

The rank and title of National Scientist of the Philippines was created through Presidential Decree Nos. 1003 and 1003-A which also established the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST).

Awardees are conferred the rank and title of “National Scientist,” with accompanying medallion and citation and are given a financial gratuity with the amount determined by the National Academy. They are also entitled to the same privileges enjoyed by National Artists of the Philippines, which include a monthly life pension, medical and hospitalization benefits, and a place of honor. Upon their death a state funeral will be conducted by the National Academy and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, befitting their recognized status as heroes of the Philippines.

(Ref: Philippine News Agency archives; Photo from amazingpilipinas.blogspot.co.nz/2014/10/president-ferdinand-e-marcos.html)