President Marcos Jr. Commits to Bolstering Cybersecurity Measures in the Philippines

In a recent meeting with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Digital Infrastructure Group, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. pledged to expedite the passage of crucial cybersecurity legislation in the Philippines. The commitment follows the PSAC's request to prioritize three bills currently pending in the Senate, aligned with the Philippine Digital Transformation Framework. This article explores the President's vow, the proposed legislation, and the broader implications for the country's cybersecurity landscape.

The bills awaiting passage include Senate Bill (SB) 1365 (Cybersecurity Act), SB 2039 (Anti-Mule Act), and SBs 2150 and 2385 (Online Site Blocking Act). The Cybersecurity Act aims to institutionalize and fortify the National Cybersecurity Inter-Agency Committee, enhancing the nation's resilience against cyber threats. The Anti-Mule Act targets fraudulent activities related to bank accounts and financial platforms, while the Online Site Blocking Bill seeks to combat online content piracy and protect the creative industry and consumers.

President Marcos assured the PSAC officials during the meeting that he would actively assess the bills and collaborate with the legislative leadership to expedite their passage. Recognizing the urgent need for structural requirements in legislation, he emphasized the importance of swift action to address the rising cyber threats faced by the country.

Cybersecurity Landscape in the Philippines:

The Philippines ranks fourth globally in the number of cyberattacks, with 3,000 incidents reported from 2020 to 2022, with approximately half targeting government entities. A report by Cisco Systems Inc. indicates that 85 percent of companies in the Philippines acknowledge the potential disruption of their operations due to cybersecurity attacks in the next 24 months.

Beyond legislation, the PSAC urged President Marcos to issue an Executive Order (EO) mandating minimum information security standards for critical information infrastructure. The move aligns with the National Cybersecurity Plan and aims to enhance the resilience of vital systems against cyber intrusions. Critical Information Infrastructure, valued at PHP2.4 trillion in 2022, encompasses sectors such as water, government, transportation, energy, banking, and telecommunications.

Challenges and Initiatives:

A 2021 report by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) revealed that cybersecurity breaches in the Philippines resulted in private data theft and disruptions in public services. The PSAC expressed concern over the lack of computer emergency response teams in 60 percent of government agencies and the absence of cyber hygiene activities in a similar percentage.

Support for Government Initiatives:

The PSAC reiterated its full support for the DICT's plan to establish a multi-sectoral technical working group combating fraud and financial cyber threats. This initiative includes the creation of a Mobile Device Database and Anti-Financial Crimes Command Center. Additionally, the PSAC endorsed the upcoming Data Unity Summit and urged President Marcos to deliver a keynote address.

In conclusion, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to bolstering cybersecurity measures in the Philippines is a commendable move in response to the escalating cyber threats faced by the nation. As legislative efforts progress to strengthen the country's digital defences, it is essential for both the government and private sector to work hand-in-hand to ensure the effective implementation of these initiatives.

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