MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued a directive for the adoption and enforcement of the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028, aimed at bolstering the security and resilience of Philippine cyberspace.
Executive Order (EO) 58, signed by Marcos on April 4, mandates the implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028, crafted by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), as a comprehensive strategy for the integrated development and strategic direction of the country’s cybersecurity efforts.
All national government agencies and instrumentalities are required to develop, adopt, and execute their cybersecurity plans and strategies in alignment with the NCSP 2023-2028, according to EO 58. Local government units (LGUs) are also encouraged to follow suit.
In accordance with its mandate under Section 15 of Republic Act (RA) 10844, the DICT formulated the NCSP 2023-2028 to establish the country’s policy direction and operational guidelines for creating a trusted, secure, and resilient cyberspace for all Filipinos.
The EO emphasizes the necessity for full support and cooperation from all relevant government agencies, instrumentalities, and LGUs to ensure the successful implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028.
Furthermore, the DICT is directed to establish an effective system for monitoring, reviewing, and implementing the NCSP 2023-2028, in compliance with existing laws and regulations. Additionally, the DICT is instructed to collaborate with the private sector to provide technical assistance to other government agencies and offices in implementing the NCSP 2023-2028.
The EO also requires the DICT to submit bi-annual progress reports on the implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028 to the President through the Office of the Executive Secretary and the National Cybersecurity Inter-Agency Committee.
Funding for the implementation of EO 58 will be sourced from current appropriations of concerned agencies, subject to relevant budgetary laws and regulations. Future funding requirements will be included in the General Appropriations Act through the standard budget preparation process.
The enhancement of security and resilience in the country’s cyberspace aligns with the key strategies outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 to ensure safety and security in both cyber and physical domains.
A copy of EO 58 was released on Saturday, with the directive taking immediate effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
(By El Amigo/MNM)
