Only 6% of organizations in the Philippines are prepared to handle modern cyber threats, according to Cisco’s 2025 Cybersecurity Readiness Index. This is an increase from last year’s 1%, but most organizations remain vulnerable as new threats emerge, especially from artificial intelligence (AI).
The Cisco study, based on a survey of 8,000 business and security leaders across 30 countries, shows that most Philippine companies are still at the “Beginner,” “Formative,” or “Progressive” stages of readiness. With 75% of respondents expecting cyber incidents to disrupt their operations in the next year or two, Cisco warns that there’s an urgent need for stronger security measures.
AI adds pressure to an already weak defense
AI has become both a tool and a challenge in cybersecurity. While 93% of organizations use AI to improve threat detection and response, 85% also reported facing AI-related incidents in the past year. Despite this, only 71% believe their employees fully understand these risks, and just 59% feel their teams can recognize how attackers are using AI to launch more advanced threats.
“AI opens up new possibilities but also adds complexity to an already challenging security landscape,” said Zaza Soriano-Nicart, managing director of Cisco Philippines. “Over the past year, we have seen companies worldwide, including those in the Philippines, continue to grapple with evolving threats like the rise of shadow AI, talent shortages, and complex security infrastructures.”
Complex setups, weak budgets, and lack of talent
Cisco’s report highlights several challenges. Many organizations are still using complicated systems with over 10 different security tools, making it harder to respond quickly to threats. About 82% say this slows them down. Also, only 49% dedicate more than 10% of their IT budgets to cybersecurity, a drop from last year.
About 90% of companies face a shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with over half struggling to fill more than ten open roles. The growing use of GenAI tools, often unregulated, and the use of personal devices to access company networks also add to the risks.
The report recommends investing in AI-driven solutions, simplifying security systems, and boosting employee awareness to better handle today’s complex cyber landscape.
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