DICT in talks with 4 countries for cybersecurity partnership

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is in talks with at least four countries for a possible partnership to boost cybersecurity in the Philippines.

DICT Assistant Secretary for Cybersecurity Allan Cabanlong said Wednesday the department is in discussion with the governments of the US, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia for a possible signing of a memorandum of understanding on cybersecurity.

"The MOU will be about sharing or exchange of information, sharing of technology, and best practices," Cabanlong told reporters on the sidelines of the Seamless Philippines 2018 in Pasay City.

"As a country, we should get other countries’ best practices... This will help us strengthen our cybersecurity posture," he said.

He said the possible partnership with the US, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia will be similar with the deal signed with Russia's state-owned BiZone Limited Liability Company.

On September 24, the DICT and BiZone signed an MOU which includes enhancing the Philippines’ cybersecurity, mutual response to cybersecurity incidents, exchange of information on actual cyber threats, and exchange of information on cybersecurity policies and technologies. 

Cabanlong said there is still no definite timeline when the DICT will strike a deal with the US, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia, adding that the agency explores possible partnerships not only with these four countries but with any country.

"Wala dapat tayong tanggihan. They offer their help, why not? Whether it is Russia or US, Singapore, ASEAN members they are all welcome," he said. — MDM, GMA News