The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., has committed to intensifying measures to protect and further improve its cybersecurity infrastructure amid growing concerns over overseas digital intrusions targeting key institutions in the country.
The commitment followed a report from Microsoft identifying the Philippines as the fifth most targeted country by Chinese state-sponsored cyber operations.
Nartatez said the PNP is treating the report seriously and with utmost urgency in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr., through the guidance of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen the country’s digital security framework.
“There is no room for complacency especially in matters pertaining to the security of our digital infrastructure. We in the PNP must be alert and implement the necessary measures against any and all emerging threats that come with the modern communication technology,” Nartatez said.
Microsoft reported that Chinese state actors have focused on large-scale information gathering involving a wide range of targets. The report noted that their activities remained centered on maintaining long-term access to systems to facilitate espionage.
Nartatez said the PNP is looking into the report and will use the information discussed to strengthen the protection and operational readiness of all the units and PNP offices concerned.
He likewise underscored the need for a whole-of-nation approach in protecting the country’s digital ecosystem, noting that cybersecurity requires close collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders.
“We are coordinating with other concerned agencies such as the DICT and the CICC to enhance our cybersecurity infrastructure and prevent any attempt to compromise the security of our data,” Nartatez also said.