THE country’s cybersecurity landscape took center stage with the official launch of I AM SECURE 2026, a premier industry platform now in its ninth year, calling for a unified national response to increasingly intelligent and sophisticated cyber threats.
Anchored on the theme “Soaring High: Future Ready in the Age of Intelligent Threats,” the initiative brings together key leaders from government, enterprise, and the technology sector to strengthen cyber resilience and accelerate digital transformation across industries.
Launched during a press conference at Omniverse Museum in Makati, the program builds on a legacy that began in 2018 as a Filipino-led cybersecurity movement.
Over the years, it has evolved into one of the country’s most influential cybersecurity platforms, convening thousands of professionals from more than 600 companies across 20 industries, alongside global solution providers and thought leaders.
Key cyber defense
Government and law enforcement officials emphasized the urgency of a coordinated, whole-of-nation approach to cybersecurity as threats grow more complex.
Among those present were Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda, Robert Paguia of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla, Colonel Roland Ong of the Philippine Army Reserve Command, Police Brigadier General Wilson C. Asueta of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group, and Police Colonel Jay Guillermo of the Cyber Response Unit.
Officials underscored the importance of strengthening cyber defense capabilities, enhancing data protection, and building resilient digital infrastructure, while highlighting the role of collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Industry leaders echoed the call for deeper collaboration as cyber risks evolve alongside rapid digitalization.
“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).
Jacinto likened today’s digital ecosystem to an “omniverse,” where interconnected systems create both opportunities and vulnerabilities, requiring a unified defense strategy.
ISOG Vice President Alvin Punsalan emphasized the need to expand cybersecurity awareness and capabilities across industries, stressing the importance of workforce upskilling and proactive security strategies.
Economic impact and programs
Xiameer Valdeavilla, CEO of XMS and partner of I AM SECURE, highlighted the initiative’s broader economic significance.
“I AM SECURE 2026 is a platform for collaboration and innovation that enables organizations to become future-ready,” Valdeavilla said. “It also strengthens the Philippines’ position as a hub for high-value MICE engagements within the growing cybersecurity market.”
