In a move towards enhancing cybersecurity and defense ties aimed at protecting mutual economic interests against digital threats, the United States and Australia have unveiled plans to collaborate closely with the Philippines.
At a recent high-level meeting hosted by the Center for New American Security and the Stratbase ADR Institute, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and Australian counterpart Hae Kyong Yu outlined their vision for a digitally resilient Indo-Pacific.
Focusing on the theme of “digital solidarity,” Carlson noted the significance of aligning international technology efforts with shared democratic values.
“Digital solidarity is a valuable principle for centering international technology efforts because it aligns our national interests with those of partners who share our core values in key diplomatic areas: governance, combating transnational crime, and building resilience,” the US diplomat said.
Echoing this sentiment, Yu underscored the strategic partnership with the Philippines in fostering a cyber-resilient region.
“Australia wants to continue to help the Philippines build (its) capability around dealing with cyber threats. And we want to work with you to uphold international law and the rules and norms of responsible state behavior in cyberspace,” said the Australian envoy.
“We want to work with the Philippines to protect human rights as well in the UN (United Nations) ad hoc committee cybercrime negotiations. When efforts are put together, it’s amazing what we can achieve,” Yu added.
During the event, both ambassadors discussed comprehensive strategies for strengthening regional cybersecurity. Key areas of focus include rapid incident recovery, safe technology adoption, threat intelligence sharing, critical infrastructure protection, and regional cyber resilience.
“Digital solidarity [as a practice means] enhancing digital and cyber capacity to support resilient ecosystems, fostering the growth of data-dependent industries that employ millions, such as the Philippine business process outsourcing sector,” Carlson pointed out.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in modernizing the alliance between the US, Australia and the Philippines, with a clear focus on integrating cyber cooperation to support economic and security interests.