Why the Philippines Needs a National Cybersecurity Council

From the bustling business districts of Makati to the provincial government offices in the Visayas and Mindanao, the Philippines is embracing digital transformation. But as our daily lives and essential services move online, the threats lurking in cyberspace are growing just as fast. Lawmakers are now pushing a crucial reform: the creation of a National Cybersecurity Council (NCC).

The move comes not a moment too soon. The Philippines has consistently ranked among the most heavily targeted countries in Southeast Asia for cyberattacks. Phishing, ransomware, and data breaches have become far too common, exposing sensitive information and undermining public trust. It is clear that our current fragmented and reactive approach is no longer enough.

From Duterte's Order to Marcos' Permanent Council

The push for a centralized authority is a necessary evolution. During the Duterte administration, Executive Order No. 95 created the National Cybersecurity Inter-Agency Committee (NCIAC). It was a solid starting point, but a mere executive order can only do so much. Now, under the Marcos administration, lawmakers in the 20th Congress want to build on that foundation and turn the committee into a permanent, legislated body.

Through several Senate and House Bills, including SB 1492, 1891, 1946, and 2085, as well as House Bills 7927, 8071, 8096, and 8482, the NCC would be formally attached to the Office of the President. This shift gives the council real teeth, moving it from a temporary executive creation to a permanent institution with defined powers.

Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Filipino Families

House Bill 8096 paints a stark picture of the risks. Repeated attacks on government databases have shown how vulnerable we are. But this is not just about government data; it is about the essential services that keep our communities alive. A failure in our critical infrastructure, such as power, water, transportation, and emergency services, would be devastating for both urban centers and rural provinces.