(File photo)
MANILA – By putting cybersecurity at the forefront, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is laying the groundwork for a safer, stronger digital environment to allow businesses to grow, individuals to communicate and do transactions online with peace of mind, and the government to deliver services more efficiently.
The President took a big leap in strengthening the country’s cybersecurity by issuing Executive Order (EO) No. 58 on April 4, 2024. The order officially adopts the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028, developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). With this initiative, the administration reaffirms its commitment to a safer and more resilient digital environment for all Filipinos.
For President Marcos, boosting the safety and reliability of Philippine cyberspace is a top priority. This is part of the Philippine Development Plan for 2023-2028. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms across various sectors, this directive is a timely response to emerging cyber threats and vulnerabilities, he said.
Under EO 58, the NCSP 2023-2028 is officially designated as the nation’s comprehensive roadmap for cybersecurity. The plan provides a clear policy direction and operational framework, ensuring an integrated, whole-of-nation approach to securing the country’s digital infrastructure.
The order requires all government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to work together. They need to help make the NCSP 2023-2028 a success.
The DICT is tasked with developing an effective system to monitor and evaluate the execution of the plan. In collaboration with the private sector, the DICT will also extend technical assistance to various government agencies to enhance cybersecurity measures across the country.
Government agencies drive digital progress
As the Philippines moves forward on its path to digital transformation, the Executive Branch has been actively pursuing key initiatives under the NCSP.
For example, the Department of Agriculture (DA) is spearheading smart ICT projects to modernize farming in the country. These efforts not only support the government’s broader goal of strengthening digital infrastructure but also aim to foster data-driven governance and empower local communities, all through the power of technology
On June 10, 2024, DA rolled out several initiatives aimed at bringing technology to the agricultural sector. It created a Digital Agriculture Team under the DA-Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP). This team focuses on using technology to improve productivity, sustainability, and resource management in agriculture.
The DA has made it simpler for farmers and fishermen to sign up and get vital government services. They have updated the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) to streamline the process and ensure that those in the agricultural sector receive the support they need more efficiently.
The DA also set up the Agriculture-based Central Data Ecosystem (AbCDE), a centralized platform that brings together all agricultural data for smarter decision-making and more effective policy development.
Staying true to its commitment to drive digital transformation and promote open governance, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on December 4, 2024 launched the Budget and Treasury Management System (BTMS), that enables real-time online accounting, monitoring, and oversight of obligations and disbursements, providing crucial insights for making informed decisions on managing government resources.
DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the BTMS will foster a transparent and open government, offering a centralized database that streamlines and organizes all government financial operations. This move reflects a step toward greater accountability and efficiency in public finance.
Said Pangandaman: “[T]he BTMS is more than a system and a technological upgrade — it is a crucial step in turning the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and sustainability into tangible actions, a reflection of our resolve to build a governance structure that better serves the present and future Filipinos.”
On Dec. 13, 2024, the DBM’s Procurement Service launched the PhilGEPS. eMarketplace which lets agencies use their devices to procure supplies directly from trusted suppliers.
These initiatives clearly show the Marcos administration’s dedication to using technology as a cornerstone of national development. As the country moves forward with these transformative ICT projects, it opens up new doors for growth and progress across all sectors, while building a more inclusive, digitally connected society for everyone.
Partnership with South Korea
In a world where technology is constantly evolving, the Philippines is entering an exciting new chapter. The country is forming a partnership that holds the potential to transform its future, backed by South Korea’s cutting-edge digital expertise.
Called the Korean-Philippine Economic Innovation Partnership Program (EIPP), this collaboration marks a big step forward in the country’s digital transformation. It’s a journey that reflects the vision of President Marcos, who sees the power of technology as key to driving progress.
On Jan. 16, 2025, leaders from the Philippines and South Korea gathered for the first meeting of the EIPP. This marks a new step in the country’s tech growth. Led by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), this partnership focuses on modernizing Philippine digital infrastructure with three game-changing projects.
The first initiative, the National Communications Satellite Roadmap, is all about connecting the Philippines like never before. This plan aims to strengthen the country’s satellite communications network, ensuring that even the most remote regions are digitally linked. It’s a bold move that magnifies the vision of President Marcos, who dreams of a nation where technology brings people closer, no matter where they are.
The second project, the Philippine E-Government Master Plan, is all about transforming the way the government interacts with its constituents. It promises to make government services quicker, simpler, and more accessible for everyone. Picture a future where dealing with government processes isn’t a headache, where services are easy to navigate and truly responsive to people’s needs. This is the vision the plan strives to bring to life, building on the Marcos administration’s commitment to making public services better for all Filipinos.
Finally, the launch of the Integrated Data Center is set to change the way the government handles and secures its data. Backed by Korea’s top-tier expertise in data management, this project ensures the Philippines is equipped with the modern infrastructure needed to keep pace with the demands of a fast-moving digital economy.
It’s more than just a technical upgrade—it’s a step toward building a thriving digital ecosystem that can fuel innovation and growth. In many ways, this initiative reflects President Marcos’ vision of a future where technology serves as the backbone of the nation’s progress.
Joseph Capuno, Undersecretary for Investment Programming at NEDA, shared his excitement about this partnership: “By working together, we can create a future where our countries do well in the global economy. We’ll focus on innovation, teamwork, and making progress together.” (PNA)
