IN ZAMBOANGA City, studying Biology is seen as a close-ended and often frowned-upon pursuit. Even as a pre-medical school degree program, it is not as common of a choice as one would think.
When people hear what my course is, there is always an unspoken rule or pressure imposed to become a medical doctor—or else it will be “hard” for me in the future.
The idea of “practicality,” especially in the province, is dictated by a traditional view of financial stability, largely influenced by the expected income that comes with the occupation. This notion comes in consideration of possible careers that are available in the locality. There is an unsaid preference for courses that often qualify for licensure examinations in these areas because of their perceived “stability” and edge in the job market.
Consequently, student turnouts for research-based courses continue to suffer from low enrollment rates—decreasing the institution’s allocated budget for the course until it can no longer offer it.
Given how such fields continue to be underfunded, especially in areas outside the National Capital Region, the provincial researcher finds no incentive to continue. The lack of facilities and funding dedicated to research in areas outside Mega Manila make it even more dissuasive to pursue.
As a result, researchers either switch careers or switch locations.
This trend—as observed in almost every region—causes an unavoidable concentration of research jobs in the capital. It makes it even harder for the Filipino scientist to have a breakthrough in their career unless they decide to work abroad.
Where, then, is the place of the Zamboangueño ecologists? Where shall the Bicolano data analysts find themselves?
Even if there are existing incentive systems that promise regular competitive wages, such as the Balik Scientist Program or the designation of an official rank in the country’s Scientific Career System, one must first establish oneself in the field. The amount of money, time, and research it takes to meet such distinction is backbreaking, especially within an unsupportive environment.
Thus, in most cases, there is much more logic in simply conforming to favored occupations and fields. However, it does not mean that research is not a necessity; in fact, our country is lagging in digital infrastructure, technological advancement, and even science education and creative thinking.
Ironically, our education system continues to require research as the ultimate prerequisite for graduation. Yet, the justification for such an assessment weakens when pursuing research as a full-time career is actively discouraged.
At the root of this reduced perception of research’s value is perhaps a traditional view on scientific endeavor. We treat research as a mere spectacle—only meant to be appreciated when it is there, when it impresses us, and especially when it does something for us. However, our support for it only goes within its benefits.
This reality renders the Filipino research career gated and unwelcoming—shrouded in a punishing path that takes more from you than it gives.
Derreck is a Biology junior at the Ateneo de Manila University expecting to graduate in 2026. Specializing in Biomedical Science with a Minor in Humanitarian Action, he advocates for accessible healthcare and climate justice while working toward his field-specific interests in molecular medicine and cancer biology research.
Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed by the opinion writer do not necessarily state or reflect those of the publication.
