MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028, a comprehensive roadmap designed to protect Philippine institutions, resources, and citizens from the growing threat of cyberattacks.
This plan aims to bolster the country’s digital defenses while fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and responsibility.
The NCSP 2023-2028, unveiled by Malacañang on February 8, 2024, and was issued through Executive Order No. 58, s. 2024, is a testament to the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s digital future.
It provides clear policy directions and actionable steps to strengthen the resilience of critical systems, secure valuable assets, and empower citizens to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) under Secretary Ivan John E. Uy, the plan reflects stringent global standards and addresses the unique challenges of the Philippine digital environment.
Extensive consultations with the private sector, academia, and other government agencies ensured that the NCSP is inclusive and grounded in the realities of both the public and private sectors.
A strategic response to cyber threats
Secretary Uy emphasized that the NCSP directly addresses the rising volume and sophistication of cyberattacks targeting the Philippines.
“This plan is not just a defense mechanism; it is a proactive framework. It outlines effective policies, secures critical infrastructure, and establishes clear response protocols to combat cyber threats head-on,” he said.
The NCSP incorporates advanced threat detection and assessment tools while fostering partnerships with international organizations to strengthen the country’s cybersecurity posture.
These partnerships enhance the DICT’s ability to identify, mitigate, and respond to threats before they cause significant harm.
Preparing Filipinos for the digital age
A central feature of the NCSP is building the capacity of the Filipino workforce to counter cyber threats.
The DICT is investing heavily in upskilling Filipinos in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies.
Secretary Uy highlighted the various programs, scholarships, and training initiatives being rolled out to ensure Filipinos are equipped to thrive in the digital age.
“We are offering capacity building programs in cybersecurity and related fields. These opportunities are not just for the privileged few; they are open to everyone who is willing to learn and contribute,” Uy said.
“Let us make the most of these programs. They are a gateway to high-paying jobs and a brighter future.”
The global cybersecurity industry currently has millions of job vacancies, and the Philippines, with its young and dynamic workforce, is well-positioned to address this gap.
Uy pointed out the significant global demand for cybersecurity professionals.
“These are high-paying jobs. Right now, there are about 4 million vacancies worldwide in the cybersecurity field,” he said.
Turning threats into opportunities
Secretary Uy also addressed the issue of local hackers, suggesting that their skills could be redirected toward productive and ethical purposes.
Instead of contributing to cybercriminal activities, these individuals could become part of the solution to the country’s cybersecurity challenges.
“We catch many hackers in the Philippines. Instead of wasting their skills and ruining their lives, we offer them a chance to turn things around. We can train them, provide scholarships, and help them build a career in cybersecurity,” Uy said.
“This is an opportunity for them to use their talents for good and secure a better future for themselves.”
Strengthening national security
President Marcos also emphasized the importance of cybersecurity within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Speaking during the Army’s 127th anniversary, he urged military personnel to strengthen their cyber capabilities and actively contribute to the nation’s security.
Recent cyberattacks on government websites have underscored the need for robust cybersecurity measures.
In response, the PNP has been instructed to rebuild its Anti-Cybercrime Unit to better protect public resources and maintain public trust in government systems.
Aligned with national goals
The NCSP is part of a broader strategy to integrate cybersecurity into the country’s development agenda.
It aligns with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the National Security Strategy, ensuring that digital security is a core component of national progress.
The plan emphasizes protecting citizens’ rights and securing digital transactions as e-commerce and online government services continue to expand. These efforts are also integral to the Bagong Pilipinas vision of the Marcos administration, which seeks to modernize and streamline government services for the benefit of all Filipinos.
A product of collaboration
The NCSP incorporates insights from three major public consultations and over 20 smaller meetings.
Stakeholders submitted more than 30 position papers, many of which were carefully reviewed and integrated into the final version of the plan.
The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) and the Presidential Management Staff played pivotal roles in facilitating these discussions.
Their input ensured that the plan addresses the needs of both government institutions and private enterprises, making it robust and future-ready.
Secretary Uy described the initiative as a collaborative effort aimed at preparing the nation for the challenges and opportunities of the digital era.
“We are scaling up our training programs and capacity-building initiatives for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies,” Uy said.
Empowering a young workforce
The Philippines’ young workforce, with an average age of 24 to 25, is a key asset in this endeavor.
Over the next two decades, this demographic advantage positions the country to address global challenges such as aging populations and labor shortages in First World nations.
“This is a golden opportunity for the Philippines. With our young and dynamic workforce, we can meet global demand for skilled professionals while driving our own economic development,” Uy said.
Beyond technical training, the DICT is conducting nationwide information campaigns to educate Filipinos about online scams and cybersecurity risks.
Secretary Uy stressed that cybersecurity is not just about systems but also about people’s behavior.
“What cybercriminals often exploit is not the system itself but the weakness of individuals,” he said.
Progress on the global stage
The NCSP is already producing results.
A September 2024 report revealed that the Philippines had climbed from 61st to 53rd place in the United Nations Global Cybersecurity Index, with its score improving from 77 to 93.49 points.
This improvement from Tier 3, categorized as “Evolving”, to Tier 2, known as “Advancing,” reflects the government’s dedication to securing the country’s digital future and enhancing its reputation as a global player in cybersecurity.
A commitment to the future
The National Cybersecurity Plan 2023-2028 demonstrates the government’s commitment to building a secure and resilient digital infrastructure.
With a clear vision, strong leadership, and a skilled workforce, the Philippines is taking meaningful steps toward becoming a leader in the digital age.
This initiative is not just about technology; it is about empowering people, protecting their rights, and ensuring that every Filipino can participate confidently in a connected world.
The NCSP is a blueprint for a future where opportunities are within reach of all, and where safety and security are woven into the fabric of everyday life.
