The Philippines’ Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) recently released its National Cybersecurity Plan (NSCP) 2022 as part of the digital transformation program to protect the online community and ensure the confidentiality of personal information. The NSCP 2022 named cyber criminals, cyber-enabled crimes, hacktivists, script kiddies, and terrorists as sources of threats.

DICT developed the NCSP to protect Internet users, the country’s critical information infrastructure (CII), private and public networks, and businesses of all sizes. NSCP will shape government policies and guidelines on cybersecurity and provide implementation plans for stakeholders.

Cyber Resiliency Programs

The NSCP’s main goals are to ensure continuous operation of public and military information infrastructures, implement cyber resiliency programs, coordinate with law enforcement agencies, and educate society about cybersecurity.

In addition, the NSCP maps threats in the cyber landscape, identifies key issues, proposes strategic solutions, and promotes societal awareness.

Taking on Cyber Security Issues

The NSCP 2022 booklet emphasized the need for collaboration to address challenges and achieve the goals of the plan. Individuals, businesses and the public sector must work together, as the government cannot take on cybersecurity issues and threats alone.

The recently established DICT commits to implementing the plan in full force. The agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Council of Electronics Commerce Consultants (EC Council) to jumpstart the plan.

Among other responsibilities, DICT is in charge of securing critical information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure for the private and public sectors, managing agencies that regulate the ICT sector, and boosting the growth of ICT.