CICC narrows gender gap in advanced digital forensics

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Fifteen Filipino women recently completed the US-based National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C) Advanced Digital Forensics course.

These women specialists came from the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

READ: AI bridges the gender gap in the Philippines

They are the first batch of Filipinas who have received this training, which had traditionally been male-dominated. 

Specifically, global studies show that only 20% to 25% of cybersecurity experts are women.

Their achievement is a significant milestone in the Philippines’ goal of narrowing the gender gap in the cybersecurity sector. 

CICC Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos emphasized that his agency organized the training to transcend societal norms and stereotypes regarding Filipino women. 

This training program occurred in the National Cybercrime Hub in Bonifacio Global City. 

Also, it imparted critical skills like forensic data acquisition, malware analysis, and advanced investigative techniques. 

“This milestone highlights the dedication and expertise of our women specialists in cybercrime investigation,” Ramos said.

“As digital threats evolve, the need for highly trained professionals—regardless of gender—becomes more crucial.”

“We are proud of these graduates who have enhanced capabilities to secure and defend our digital landscape,” he added. 

This triumph over the gender gap is significantly impactful as the world celebrates International Women’s Month.