Davos: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Thursday announced that the Philippines was highlighted as a role model in tackling cybersecurity and cybercrimes at the recent World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy revealed that the Philippines was featured in a WEF video released on January 15, showcasing its leadership in confronting global cybersecurity issues, particularly the increasing prevalence of the “grandparent scam” that affects the elderly.

According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Uy emphasized the importance of promoting “cyber hygiene” as a life skill, akin to teaching children the necessity of washing hands before meals. Uy stressed that cyber hygiene should be instilled in children who use mobile phones or tablets, highlighting that it is not merely a technical skill but a crucial life skill due to the pervasive nature of internet connectivity and cybercrimes.

Uy also called for enhanced collaboration with social media platforms and companies providing communication tools, pointing out that these platforms are often exploited by scammers using social engineering to identify and exploit vulnerabilities. He advocated for stronger collective action across industries and nations to combat these issues effectively.

The WEF video also highlighted significant steps the Philippines has taken to reinforce its cyber defenses, including the National Cybersecurity Plan 2023-2028. Uy noted that President Ferdinand R. Marcos, in implementing this policy, affirmed that enhancing the security and resilience of the nation’s cyberspace aligns with the objectives of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which aims to ensure safety and security in both cyber and physical environments.