The Philippines has achieved a significant milestone in cybersecurity, soaring to 53rd place in the 2024 United Nations Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI). Announced by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on September 15, this marks a notable rise from its previous position of 61st in 2020.
Major Surge in Cybersecurity Ranking
According to the GCI report released on September 12, the Philippines' cybersecurity score has climbed to an impressive 93.49 points, up from 77 points in 2020. This substantial improvement places the country just 1.51 points away from joining Tier 1, the highest level of cybersecurity excellence recognized globally. The introduction of a new five-tier system by the GCI this year has elevated the Philippines from Tier 3 (Evolving) to Tier 2 (Advancing), reflecting substantial advancements across key cybersecurity areas.
Government Efforts Powering the Surge
The remarkable increase in the Philippines' cybersecurity score can be largely attributed to the implementation of the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028. This strategic plan, endorsed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. through Executive Order No. 58 in April, mandates that all government agencies adhere to the NCSP guidelines. This executive order aims to strengthen the nation's defenses against cyber threats and ensure a unified approach to cybersecurity across all sectors.
DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy commended the progress, stating, “This is a huge achievement for the Philippines. It shows that our hard work to protect Filipinos online is bearing fruit, but we are not stopping here. We are on the brink of being a global leader in cybersecurity and we will continue working to safeguard our digital world.”
Looking Ahead: A Path to Global Leadership
With this notable advancement and ongoing strategic efforts, the Philippines is on a promising path to becoming a global leader in cybersecurity. The continued implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028 and a clear vision for enhancing digital security reflect the nation’s dedication to creating a secure online environment for all Filipinos. As the country aims for Tier 1 status, its recent progress highlights a determined commitment to safeguarding its digital future.
