As cyber threats loom larger on the global stage, the Philippines is fortifying its digital defenses. On September 19, Manila will host the Philippine segment of the International Conference on ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Community (IC-AJCC), a gathering that aims to bolster cybersecurity measures across Asia.
The conference, dubbed CyberSecConPH, is a collaborative effort between the Philippine Computer Emergency Response Team (PH-CERT) and the National Association of Data Protection Officers of the Philippines (NADPOP). The event seeks to foster dialogue and collaboration among public and private sectors, with a focus on enhancing information security and cybersecurity practices.
“The conference is not just a meeting of minds but a call to action,” said Sam Jacoba, CyberSecConPH conference chair. “We’re expecting over 100 chief information security officers, chief information officers, and data professionals to convene here. It’s a free event, but by invitation only, underscoring its exclusivity and focus.”
A Roster of Global Experts
Confirmed speakers include Seiichi Ito, Chair of the International Relations Committee of Japan’s Network Security Association, and Dr. Rudi Lumanto, Founder and Advisor of the Indonesia Network Security Association. They will share insights into best practices in their respective countries. Lito Averia, President of PH-CERT, will discuss the Philippine perspective, while USec. Jeffrey Dy of the Department of Information and Communications Technology will update attendees on the National Cybersecurity Plan for 2023-2028.
The Urgency of Now
The conference comes at a critical time. “The rise in cybercrime incidents necessitates a robust response,” said Averia. “We need to expand our cadre of cybersecurity professionals to defend against increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. Collaboration through ethical communities is vital to counter threats from rogue actors and state-sponsored cyber terrorism.”
A Multifaceted Approach
The conference will also feature a diverse group of facilitators, including Wilson Chua, Co-Founder of Bandwidth and Signal Strength Philippines; Engels Antonio, ICT Committee Chair of the National Advisory Group for Police Transformation and Development; Dr. William Yu, CTO of MDI Novare; Atty. Mara Villegas, PH-CERT Vice President for Legal; Dr. Arne Barcelo of the University of Sto. Tomas; Atty. Kiko Acero, Data Protection Officer of Meralco; and Abet Dela Cruz, Co-Founder of PH-CERT.
Looking Ahead
In addition to the discussions, the organizers plan to launch initiatives aimed at strengthening information security and cybersecurity in the Philippines. These initiatives will serve as a roadmap for the country as it navigates the complex landscape of digital threats and opportunities.
As nations grapple with the complexities of the digital age, events like CyberSecConPH offer a vital platform for dialogue and action. The conference aims not only to address the challenges of the present but also to forge a path for a more secure digital future.