Section 18Sec./Art. 18

Diaspora for Innovation and Development. A Diaspora for Innovation and Development Program is hereby established to enable the country to mobilize and tap the high level expertise of the Filipino diaspora in pursuit of innovation and development efforts.

The NIC, in coordination with the DOLE, the Bureau of Immigration, the Bureau of Customs, the DFA, among other agencies, shall establish the necessary mechanisms to facilitate the participation of qualified members of the Filipino diaspora in the countrys innovation drive.

The NIC shall develop an inventory of skills and talent requirements, and the institutions or programs needing them as basis for inviting Filipinos in the diaspora to participate in the program. The NIC shall develop the guidelines for this purpose, in coordination with the DOST and other agencies that have existing programs and funding for purposes of mobilizing overseas Filipino talents for innovation and science and technology efforts.