Manila: By emphasizing cybersecurity, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is establishing a foundation for a secure digital landscape to facilitate business growth, enhance online communications, and improve government service delivery.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos advanced the nation’s cybersecurity through Executive Order (EO) No. 58, issued on April 4, 2024. This order adopts the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028, crafted by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). The initiative underscores the administration’s dedication to a secure digital environment for Filipinos.
The President regards enhancing the security and dependability of Philippine cyberspace as a critical objective, aligning with the Philippine Development Plan for 2023-2028. He emphasized the need for this directive due to the growing reliance on digital platforms across sectors, addressing emerging cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
EO 58 designates the NCSP 2023-2028 as the nation’s comprehensive cybersecurity roadmap, providing policy direction and an operational framework for a united national approach to digital infrastructure security.
The order mandates collaboration among government agencies and local government units (LGUs) for the successful implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028.
The DICT is responsible for developing a system to monitor and evaluate the plan’s execution. In partnership with the private sector, the DICT will also offer technical support to government agencies to strengthen cybersecurity measures nationwide.
In line with the country’s digital transformation efforts, the Executive Branch is actively pursuing initiatives under the NCSP. For instance, the Department of Agriculture (DA) is leading smart ICT projects to modernize farming, supporting the government’s broader aim of enhancing digital infrastructure and promoting data-driven governance.
On June 10, 2024, the DA launched initiatives to integrate technology into agriculture, forming a Digital Agriculture Team under the DA-Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP). This team focuses on improving productivity and resource management through technology.
The DA has streamlined the process for farmers and fishermen to register and access essential government services by updating the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA). Additionally, the DA established the Agriculture-based Central Data Ecosystem (AbCDE), a centralized platform for agricultural data to enhance decision-making and policy development.
Staying committed to digital transformation and open governance, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) launched the Budget and Treasury Management System (BTMS) on December 4, 2024. This system provides real-time online accounting and oversight of financial operations, fostering transparency and accountability.
DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman stated that the BTMS is a significant step toward transparency and efficiency in public finance, reflecting the administration’s commitment to serving Filipinos effectively.
On December 13, 2024, the DBM’s Procurement Service introduced the PhilGEPS eMarketplace, enabling agencies to procure supplies directly from trusted suppliers using their devices.
These initiatives highlight the Marcos administration’s dedication to leveraging technology for national development, paving the way for growth across sectors and fostering a digitally connected society.
In its pursuit of technological advancement, the Philippines is partnering with South Korea through the Korean-Philippine Economic Innovation Partnership Program (EIPP). This collaboration, initiated on January 16, 2025, marks a significant step in the country’s digital transformation journey.
Led by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), the partnership focuses on modernizing Philippine digital infrastructure through three key projects.
The National Communications Satellite Roadmap aims to enhance satellite communications, ensuring connectivity even in remote regions. The Philippine E-Government Master Plan seeks to streamline government services, making them more accessible and user-friendly. The Integrated Data Center project, supported by Korean expertise, aims to modernize data management and security.
These initiatives reflect President Marcos’ vision of a technologically driven future, creating a thriving digital ecosystem that promotes innovation and growth. Joseph Capuno, NEDA’s Undersecretary for Investment Programming, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing shared progress and innovation.