PH Army confirms ‘illegal access’ attempt on cyber network

The Philippine Army confirmed Monday that there was an attempt to breach its cyber network, but it clarified that it was not a hacking incident.

“The Philippine Army has detected and acknowledged the illegal access attempt of a certain group to breach the PA network,” said  Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala in a message to reporters. “The Philippine Army already identified this group and (is) currently conducting counter-measures to prevent such cybersecurity incidents in the future.”

“Moving forward, the PA continues to strengthen its cyber defense capabilities through the PA Cyber Security Enhancement Program which is a key component of our modernization thrust,” he added.

“To give context, illegal access ang nangyari hindi hacking as per cyber unit of the PA,”  Dema-ala said in another message.

Cybersecurity advocacy group Deep Web Konek earlier reported of a cybersecurity breach that has compromised the network of the Philippine Army, exposing “highly sensitive personal and operational data of military personnel.” 

The group identified a certain Philippine Exodus Security group as behind the cyberattack.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy said it is already looking into an alleged data breach into its systems.

“The Philippine Navy has initiated a detailed investigation regarding the data breach claims and has taken necessary measures to ensure the integrity of our systems,” said Navy Spokesperson Captain John Percie Alcos in a message to media. 

“Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and the Philippine Navy encourages the public to work with us and contribute constructively in safeguarding the nation’s security,” he added. “The Philippine Navy remains committed to strengthening our cybersecurity defenses and addressing any potential threats to national security.”

Earlier, a Facebook page named "Philippines Exodus Security" claimed that thousands of lotto winners’ profiles from 2016 to 2025 have been compromised including names, addresses, phone numbers, IDs, and winning numbers. The claim was denied by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News