Can the Philippines overcome its cyber defence shortcomings?

Official say cyberattacks are a major security threats, but observers are sceptical the country can modernise its defences fast enough

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Philippine officials say cyberattacks are a major threat to national security and a priority amid the country’s military modernisation efforts. Shutterstock Images

Published: 8:00am, 29 Dec 2024

Amid the Philippines’ ongoing plans to modernise its military to defend against geopolitical threats, officials say fortifying its ability to combat cyberattacks is a priority, but experts warn resource gaps and insufficient training may still leave the nation vulnerable to state-sponsored digital threats.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr acknowledged the threat of cyberattacks as “complex and multifaceted” while giving a speech at the 89th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on December 20, adding that the “invisible” threats “we face today are no longer confined to our shores or the traditional battlefield.”

“The geopolitical developments and tensions continue to test our sovereignty and our resolve. The surge in cybersecurity threats, if unchallenged and unaddressed, will challenge our national security,” he said.

Marcos Jnr added that modernisation was not simply about acquiring advanced equipment, but also “transforming the way we think, the way we act, and the way we operate as a unified force.”

The president’s comments come as the AFP has expressed its plans to strengthen and prioritise the development of its cyber forces.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr speaks during the 89th Philippine Armed Forces anniversary at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, on December 20. Photo EPA-EFE

In November, General Rommel Cordova, speaking on behalf of AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jnr, said the military was prioritising the development of its cyber forces, adding that the defence department has directed the armed forces to build a new unit dedicated to enhancing its cyber defence capabilities.