DICT aware of reports of leaked ASEAN administrative papers

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Friday night said it was aware of reports of the unauthorized leak of a limited set of documents related to preparations for ASEAN 2026 activities in the Philippines.

Based on the initial assessment, the DICT said the documents are preparatory and administrative in nature and do not include substantive ASEAN agenda papers, official deliberations, or policy discussions. It said there is currently no indication that ASEAN systems, platforms, or classified deliberative materials were compromised.

The Philippine National Police, in coordination with relevant law enforcement and intelligence agencies, is conducting an active investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The DICT is closely coordinating with these agencies to support ongoing forensic, containment, and monitoring efforts.

As part of its mandate, the DICT is further strengthening cybersecurity measures for ASEAN 2026 venues, digital infrastructure, and inter-agency coordination mechanisms. These actions are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance national cyber resilience and ensure the secure conduct of major international events hosted by the Philippines.

Given the ongoing investigation and the sensitivity of the matter, the DICT will not discuss operational details at this time. Appropriate briefings are being held through official channels with relevant stakeholders, including ASEAN counterparts.

The Philippine government treats matters affecting national security and international cooperation with the utmost seriousness. The DICT remains committed to safeguarding government information systems and supporting a whole-of-government approach to cybersecurity.

Further updates will be provided as warranted. –NB, GMA Integrated News