At its first-ever press conference, the Philippine-led cybersecurity platform calls for deeper public–private collaboration, as industry leaders warn of rising attacks targeting both institutions and individuals.
As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, I AM SECURE 2026 is reinforcing a central message: cybersecurity is now a shared responsibility across sectors.
This was underscored at the press conference for “I AM SECURE 2026: Soaring High – Future-ready in the Age of Intelligent Threats,” where government agencies such as the DICT, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), CICC, PNP-ACG, Philippine National Police Cyber Response Unit, and the DBM as well as cybersecurity leaders and private sector stakeholders outlined priorities for strengthening the Philippines’ digital defenses.
Photo shows Xiameer Valdeavilla (center) of XMS together with ISOG executives Chito Jacinto (left), president, and Alvin Punsalan (right), vice president.
“Cybersecurity today is a shared responsibility across all sectors. Strengthening collaboration is key to ensuring that we are prepared to address increasingly intelligent threats,” said Chito Jacinto, President of the Information Security Officers Group (ISOG).
Originally formed under the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to support the banking sector, ISOG has expanded its reach to other industries, including telecommunications, manufacturing, and the academe.
“Cyber risk does not exist in isolation,” Jacinto said. “What happens outside financial institutions will ultimately affect the entire ecosystem.”
Shift toward individual targets
ISOG executives with industry leaders from DICT, AFP, CICC, PNP-ACG, and PNP Cyber Response Unit
At the event, the speakers highlighted a growing shift in cyberattacks — from enterprise systems to individual users.
“Organizations have significantly strengthened their defenses, making it harder for attackers to penetrate them,” said Alvin Punsalan, Vice President of ISOG. “What we are seeing now is a rise in attacks targeting individuals, particularly fraud and social engineering, and this is happening at an alarming rate.”
The trend is driving the need for broader cybersecurity awareness beyond corporate environments.
“Cybersecurity is no longer just an enterprise concern — it affects individuals, families, and communities. Awareness is critical to prevent Filipinos from being victimized by scams,” Punsalan further stressed.
Press conference signals push for collaboration
ISOG’s Chito Jacinto (center) and Alvin Punsalan (second from right), together with key organizers behind the ‘I AM Secure’ initiative.
Organizers said the press conference was convened to highlight the urgency of cybersecurity and promote stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Xiameer Valdeavilla, CEO of XMS and a key organizer of the initiative, said the timing reflects how cybersecurity has become a national priority.
“When we started in 2018, very few people understood what we were campaigning,” she said. “Today, the threats are more visible, and the impact is being felt across industries and by everyday users.”
Valdeavilla added that the initiative aims to position the Philippines as a hub for cybersecurity engagement, while addressing the country’s growing need for infrastructure, software, and security upgrades.
“There is increasing demand for cybersecurity solutions, and this creates opportunities for collaboration and investment,” she further stated.
Platform for industry engagement
IMAGE CREDIT: gnnhd.tv
As reported in TechTravelMonitor, I AM SECURE 2026 will roll out a series of engagements throughout the year, including CXO Connect sessions 1 and 2 in June and in August, culminating in the ISOGx Conference season 4 in October at the SMX Convention Center in Bonifacio Global City.
The initiative is backed by institutions such as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and supported by industry organizations, reflecting alignment with national cybersecurity priorities.
As digital adoption accelerates, stakeholders said sustained collaboration will be key to addressing evolving threats.
The message from the event was clear: strengthening the Philippines’ cybersecurity posture will require coordinated action across government, industry, and the broader public.
