The Protect Technology-Telecom Alliance Pilipinas or PROTECTA Pilipinas is working with the Department of National Defense, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center to strengthen community participation in protecting telecommunications infrastructure and improving cyber resilience.
During a forum titled “Citizens on the Frontline: Mobilizing a Volunteer Corps to Strengthen Infrastructure Security and Cyber Resilience,” government and private sector stakeholders discussed ways to involve local communities in monitoring telecom and technology infrastructure to help prevent cable theft, equipment vandalism, and cyber-related incidents.
Led by PLDT and Smart Communications, PROTECTA Pilipinas said it is pushing for a long-term national program focused on protecting telecom infrastructure and ensuring network reliability.
The group is also advocating for laws that would provide stronger legal protection for telecom assets and impose penalties for vandalism, theft, and sabotage.
PLDT and Smart said they have increased coordination with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations to raise awareness about the impact of infrastructure-related crimes on network services.
The companies reported a decline in cable and telecom equipment theft in 2025, which they attributed to stronger partnerships with local stakeholders.
The forum also highlighted international examples from Estonia, Finland, Singapore, Israel, and Ukraine, where civilian participation and volunteer programs have been integrated into national defense and cybersecurity strategies.
“The security of infrastructure is a collective responsibility,” participants said during the forum, calling for a structured and legally grounded approach to protecting critical telecom assets.
