Bambi Eloriaga-Amago
Last January 9, Facebook user Miguel Alissandro Vazquez Tan shared an experience he had recently in Japan. He met a fellow Filipino and they got to talking about how the latter ended up studying and wanting to stay and work in Japan.
Apparently, the person Tan had spoken to was a graduate of the Philippine Science High School and the University of the Philippines, but was now pursuing further studies at the University of Tokyo.
“He mentioned that he is a full subsidized scholar by the Japanese government including his school materials and rent for the dormitory where he is staying. He also mentioned that he is taking up Industrial engineering specialized [sic] on soil development foundations for high rise structures.”
Tan then asked him if he had any plans of returning to the Philippines. “He laughed as he said ‘I tried to work there but wala talagang suporta doon, (you can’t get any support there,) I approached a Philippine government agency for financial support but they keep putting me on hold’… He then told me the reason why he wanted to stay and work in Japan. He explained that after he graduates he is assured a job at one of Japan’s top research company plus he is rewarded with a high position instantly.”
This caused Tan to lament about the brain drain the Philippines is experiencing, of losing brilliant and talented people who chose to work in other countries.
“…what’s sad is that we are losing brain power and human capital which is key for our countries development… What’s really disappointing is that our Philippine Government does not do anything whatsoever to help our talented people grow. Naturally these talents will search for better opportunities abroad,” Tan said.
“Our government talks about change and many political aspects. In short they do TOO MUCH TALKING with NO ACTION,” Tan ranted further. “…Then when a Filipino happens to be successful abroad, the whole Philippine government/media takes the credit as they use the phrase ‘proud to be pinoy’. When in fact, they were not at any point an instrument to his or her success.”
Tan ended his post by saying, “Our government should focus on our peoples development. The government should subsidize their education and support them by giving them the right paying jobs they deserve. They should entice them to stay at our home country to help the Philippines progress. If our government continues to neglect our peoples education, talents and potentials. Then the Philippines will continue to be DOOMED for many generations.”
“Miguel that is exactly what is happening w phil inventors,” FB user Edgardo Vazquez agreed. “They too are leaving the country. They see no hope. They feel their talent is waisted.[sic]”
“Haven’t heard of int’l scholarships that guarantees future employment in host country till now. That guy must be exceptional whose talent is sought after in Japan,” clarified Greg Ciocson. “The scholarships I know that people I know have taken required them to go back to home country after graduation. Now that they’re done w/ masters or PhD from Japan, they’re holding permanent jobs in the Phils. Many are in science fields and have invented many awesome things that have been patented.”
“Onother [sic] wake up call to Phil. Government to At least give Importance & Support individuals with Exeptional [sic] Talents like Him. A Pride of the Country!” said Bhing Tuazon, agreeing with Tan’s stand on the matter.
