PH Cyber Defenses Lag as Geopolitical Risks Mount

A wave of recent data breaches and vulnerability scans has exposed troubling gaps in the Philippines’ cyber infrastructure and logistics readiness. As digital and physical domains become more intertwined, Filipinos are left wondering: Are our systems strong enough to hold up under pressure?

In May 2024, the Philippine National Police (PNP) succumbed to several breaches that exposed confidential information in its logistics and firearms licensing systems. The resulting investigations revealed that the use of outdated software and unpatched systems allowed these hackers to infiltrate sensitive records.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched a sweeping audit through Project SONAR (Secure Online Network Assessment and Response System), uncovering more than 20,000 cybersecurity vulnerabilities across various government platforms. By the end of 2024, DICT records show that while over 20,000 vulnerabilities had been identified and partially addressed, a large number of them remained unresolved, as only a small fraction of the affected agencies had reported complete remediation.

After the PNP breach, authorities temporarily took down online firearm licensing services and began reviewing cybersecurity protocols. Both the DICT and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) opened parallel investigations, while the Senate initiated hearings to dig deeper into the growing number of cyber threats targeting public institutions. 

Since then, the DICT has ramped up efforts to support agencies with system patching, compliance, and round-the-clock monitoring.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is also adjusting with the AFP Cyber Group. What started in 2013 as a small cyber battalion is now being elevated into a full command-level unit under new national defense reforms. The aim is to build a specialized cyber force capable of protecting key platforms from sabotage, surveillance, and foreign intrusion.

All these initiatives are happening against the backdrop of growing regional tension. Security experts warn that in the event of a conflict—whether in the Taiwan Strait or the South China Sea—cyberattacks will likely be the opening salvo. 

If the country’s digital infrastructure or logistics networks are taken offline, the capacity to carry out evacuations, military coordination, or humanitarian response could be crippled in minutes.

Addressing these gaps goes beyond just shielding data.  With a focus on these issues, the country can hold the line when it matters most. 

Whether in times of war or natural disaster, the Philippines needs infrastructure that is secure, responsive, and battle-ready. Because in this era, where wars can start with a keystroke, readiness is everything.