Philippines strengthens cybersecurity with first major conference of 2024

In a significant move to bolster cybersecurity in the Philippines, the Stratbase Institute, in partnership with the Canadian Embassy in Manila, has organized a two-day conference titled “Fortifying Cyber Cooperation Towards Digital Security.” This event is the country’s first major cybersecurity conference of 2024, marking a crucial step in addressing digital security challenges.

Dindo Manhit, President of Stratbase, highlighted the event’s goal of fostering a collaborative approach to cybersecurity. “As we embrace digital transformation, we must unite efforts across public and private sectors to protect our economic and national defense systems from cyber threats,” he said. The conference aims to serve as a foundation for initiating crucial dialogue and action in the cybersecurity domain.

The first day of the conference delved into the current cybersecurity landscape of the Philippines, focusing on policies and strategies for managing cyber risks and addressing sector-specific cyber issues like cybercrimes and disinformation. The second day will broaden the scope of international cooperation in cybersecurity and discussions on enhancing cyber resilience in the Philippines.

Among the attendees are National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman, Head of Canadian Centre for Cyber Security Sami Khoury, Undersecretary Alexander Ramos of CICC, and key officials from the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, National Security Council, Department of Energy, and National Privacy Commission.

Secretary Teodoro’s keynote address was a highlight of the conference, offering valuable insights into the country’s cybersecurity challenges and strategies.

In his address, Teodoro acknowledged the diverse audience and shared his experiences in implementing cybersecurity measures in the financial sector. He emphasized the need for thorough vulnerability assessments within the government sector and the importance of political analysis in selecting foreign partners for cybersecurity cooperation.

Teodoro also detailed the Department of National Defense’s transition towards industry-standard operational security, emphasizing the need for digital hygiene and a robust system architecture. He announced a shift in the department’s approach to vendor relations, focusing on reliability, redundancy, and risk assessment. He also discussed the challenge of changing old habits, which he identified as a significant vulnerability in cybersecurity.

The Secretary underscored balancing governmental accountability standards and national security interests. He called for cooperation and long-term institutional arrangements with like-minded nations, highlighting the Philippines as a focal point for cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

The conference is not only a meeting of minds but also a platform for initiating change and action towards a digitally secure Philippines. It serves as a beacon of hope and action, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, careful planning, and strategic alliances in cybersecurity. With the insights and strategies discussed, the event is poised to significantly impact the country’s approach to cybersecurity and its future in the digital world.