Press Release
December 29, 2007

To welcome the New Year, ANGARA ACKNOWLEDGES ROLE OF SCIENTISTS AND ARTISTS IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY

"Science, technology and the creative sectors will be the great enablers in the global competitive economy and prevent the Philippines from being left behind in the competition," said Senator Edgardo J. Angara, chairman of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology.

"Right now, our world of 6 billion people is divided into the top 1 billion, middle 4 billion and bottom 1 billion," said the Senator. "This bottom billion has remained stagnant while the rest of the developing world has enjoyed accelerating growth."

Fortunately for the Philippines, the future does not seem that bleak if we know our niche. China and India found a way out of being in the bottom billion and changed their fate through science and technology.

According to the Senator, in the US alone, there will be 2 million new jobs in computer science, math, engineering and the physical sciences by 2012. Even Europe is experiencing a scarcity of skilled manpower in the scientific and technological fields and in computer skills and creativity.

The Senator said that the Philippines may very well supply these manpower needs of other countries if we have strong foundation in S&T.

On the other hand, he added that to divert from global migration, Philippines can capitalize on ICT, business process outsourcing and medical tourism.

"There is also a move towards the creative sector," the Senator said adding that "the creative class will be the key to economic development in the future."

"The number of graphic designers has increased tenfold in a decade. More Americans today work in arts, entertainment and design and they are being paid more. Writers and musicians are now earning 30-50% more than they did in the 1970s," the Senator added.

Filipinos will not be left out with its pool of digital animators, graphic artists and artisans. "We can also tap the garment, jewelry and fashion industry, as well as the furniture industry," said the Senator.

"The emerging global society defined by knowledge and talent will require a major reevaluation of our educational system and investment priority"�this is the challenge of our present world.

Senator Angara is the author of the Congressional Commission on Science, Technology and Engineering Research and Development. (COMSTE). The Commission will review the country's status on science, engineering and technology development. It will address the Philippines waning competitiveness and build public support for making the wealth-generating fields of science, technology, engineering a national priority.

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