PH joins UN treaty to combat cybercrime

The Philippines has signed the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, making it one of the first countries to join the global treaty that facilitates the cross-border sharing of electronic evidence, and recognizes the non-consensual distribution of intimate images as an offense.

According to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Philippines was represented by DICT Secretary Henry Aguda during the convention in Ha Noi, Vietnam from October 25 to 26, 2025.

“Throughout the negotiations, the Philippines advocated for stronger safeguards to protect children online, greater technical assistance for developing nations, and a balanced approach between effective law enforcement and the protection of human rights and privacy,” the DICT said in a statement.

Based on information available on the United Nations website, the convention criminalizes a range of cyber-dependent and cyber-enabled offenses, provides for the cross-border sharing of electronic evidence, and establishes a 24/7 cooperation among states.

It is also the first international treaty to recognize the non-consensual distribution of intimate images as an offence, marking a significant step for victims of online abuse.

“This is Digital Bayanihan in action, where nations, institutions, and communities work hand in hand to secure our shared digital future,” Aguda said.

In his message intended to be delivered by Aguda, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. cited the Philippines’ determination to strengthen global cooperation against borderless and rapidly evolving cyber threats, and to champion trust, accountability, and human rights in the digital age.

The DICT said it continues to strengthen its cyber resilience through initiatives such as Oplan Cyberdome, which aims to provide proactive cyber defense and rapid incident response; and Oplan Paskong Sigurado which seeks to promote public awareness from online scams and cybercrimes during the holiday season. 

The Convention against Cybercrime was adopted by the General Assembly in December 2024, following five years of negotiation.

“The UN Cybercrime Convention is a powerful, legally binding instrument to strengthen our collective defences against cybercrime,” Secretary-General António Guterres said during the signing ceremony.

“It is a testament to the continued power of multilateralism to deliver solutions. And it is a vow that no country, no matter their level of development, will be defenceless against cybercrime,” he added. —Jon Viktor Cabuenas/RF, GMA Integrated News