AFP highlights the urgent need for stronger cyber resilience

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) emphasized the urgent need for further cyber resilience to maintain national security amid rising threats.

The Philippine News Agency reported that AFP Spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla discussed this need during the GovX.0 Summit in Pasay City.

READ: The cyber threats Philippines will face in 2025

On Wednesday, she underscored the importance of a unified, “whole-of-nation” approach to cybersecurity and noted increased risks from foreign espionage and disinformation campaigns. 

“So there will be always attacks that are driving us in different parts of society, Padilla stated.

“But what is important to know is we’re able to detect, and we’re able to deter these attacks.” 

Cybersecurity is not just about firewalls; it’s about the people, the policies that govern it, the technology that will be used, and partnerships that we have,” she added. 

Padilla cited the need for cyber resilience due to unauthorized foreign intelligence gathering that has targeted military bases, power grids, and key government facilities. 

Moreover, she mentioned the rise in cybercrime linked to illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO).

The West Philippine Sea is also a focal point for both physical and digital security threats. 

Aside from territorial disputes, it has become a digital battleground where intelligence operations, disinformation campaigns, and surveillance occur. 

The AFP Spokesperson assured every Filipino they could remain calm in the cyberspace. The AFP is collaborating with different government agencies to promote the country’s cyber resilience. 

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines is here to work with different agencies as well.” 

“We have a battle cry. It’s our seas, our rights, our future.”