The Philippines is stepping up its cybersecurity efforts as threats become more advanced, with the launch of I AM SECURE 2026 serving as a platform for coordination between government and the private sector.
Now in its ninth year, the cybersecurity program brings together agencies, enterprises, and technology providers to address risks linked to artificial intelligence, automation, and increasingly interconnected systems.
At a press briefing on March 18, officials from the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and the Philippine National Police underscored the need for a “whole-of-nation” approach to cybersecurity. This includes improving cyber defense capabilities, strengthening data protection, and enhancing law enforcement response.
Industry groups said collaboration is becoming more critical as attack surfaces expand.
“Cybersecurity today is a shared responsibility across all sectors. Strengthening collaboration is key to ensuring that we are prepared to address increasingly intelligent threats,” said Chito Jacinto, president of the Information Security Officers Group (ISOG).
Jacinto added that today’s digital landscape functions like an “omniverse,” where systems are highly interconnected and threats do not occur in isolation. “I AM SECURE 2026 sets the stage for bringing together government, enterprises, and technology leaders to operate as one unified ecosystem,” he said.
ISOG vice president Alvin Punsalan said the group is expanding its reach across industries to improve cybersecurity awareness and capabilities.
“As threats become more complex and interconnected, our organization remains committed to strengthening collaboration, upskilling the workforce, and empowering organizations to adopt proactive and resilient security strategies,” he said.
From the private sector, Xiameer Valdeavilla, CEO of XMS, said the initiative also supports efforts to position the Philippines as a hub for cybersecurity engagement and digital innovation.
The program will run throughout the year, with two invitation-only CXO Connect sessions scheduled in June and August, followed by the ISOGx Conference and exhibition in October at the SMX Convention Center in Bonifacio Global City.
The initiative is supported by institutions including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Department of Finance, as stakeholders push for stronger safeguards against evolving cyber threats.
