Gov't urged to fortify defense vs. foreign cyber threats

A Manila-based think tank has urged the government to develop cybersecurity partnership to fortify its defense against foreign cyber threats.

"The Philippines must pursue cyber diplomacy with like-minded countries and develop cybersecurity partnership to expand its foreign policy strategy and deepen diplomatic engagement," said Victor Andres Manhit, president of Stratbase ADR Institute.

He added that "fortified defense against cyber threats is a key element in realizing a peaceful, secure, and stable Indo-Pacific.”

Manhit noted that cybersecurity is a shared concern and responsibility by both the private and the public sector, as well as domestic and international players because it has the potential to affect regional stability, security, and prosperity.

He earlier warned that the country’s security may be undermined by "hostile entities" exploiting Philippine telecom networks once Senate Bill 2699 or the proposed Konektadong Pinoy Act will be passed into law as it will not require data transmission industry participants to secure a legislative franchise.

Stratbase said it could lead to a "free-for-all scenario"  wherein industry players "could take advantage of critical infrastructure" and access customer information.

“The Stratbase Institute is alarmed over the possibility that the Philippines' telecommunication networks could be exploited by hostile entities that pose significant risks to national security if the regulatory oversight function of the National Telecommunication Commission is weakened," it said.

The Konektadong Pinoy Bill aims to improve access to fast and affordable connectivity nationwide and encourages the sharing of infrastructure among telcos.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano earlier said the proposed measure was a "landmark bill" that would pave the way for reliable, affordable, accessible internet connection across the country.

"I really feel that this is an opportunity to comprehensively approach this and once magawa natin to, we will in a year, two, or three years see the difference of having reliable, affordable, accessible internet connection in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao," he added.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is pushing for the passage of the measure which, it said, will provide open access and transparency in the country’s data transmission sector.—Mariel Celine Serquiña/AOL, GMA Integrated News