Section 5Sec./Art. 5

Definition of Terms. - For the purpose of this Act:

(a) Balik Scientist. - a science, technology or innovation expert or professional, as certified by the DOST, who is a Filipino citizen or a foreigner of Filipino descent, accorded with benefits and incentives under this Act to undertake science and technology activities along his or her field of expertise with a host institution under short-term, medium-term, or long-term engagement, who is either:

(1) A resident of another country at the time of application; or

(2) A Philippine-resident for not more than three (3) years at the time of application, beginning from the most recent date of arrival from overseas education or employment along his or her field of expertise:

Provided, That those without graduate degrees equipped with exceptional expertise can be qualified under this program:

(b) Balik Scientist Program - the Program institutionalized under this Act:

(c) Host Institution - a government agency, public or private academic institution, or a locally registered enterprise in the Philippine that will under take science, technology or innovation activities, or research and development initiatives with a Balik Scientist;

(d) Short-Term Engagement - The term of engagement under the Program with a minimum duration of fifteen (15) days to a maximum duration of six (6) months per award to be served within one (1) year from the date of the award;

(e) Medium-Term Engagement the term of engagement under the Program with a duration of more than six (6) months but not exceed one (1) year per award to be served within two (2) to three (3) years from the date of the award; and

(f) Long-Term Engagement - the term of engagement under the Program with duration of more than one (1) year to three (3) years, subject to renewal to be determined by the DOST and to be served within five (5) years from the date of the award.