The Philippines has made a significant leap in the 2024 United Nations Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI), climbing to 53rd place from its previous rank of 61st in 2020. The report, released on Sept. 12, 2024, highlights the country’s improving cybersecurity landscape, underscored by its score rising from 77 to 93.49 points.
This places the Philippines just 1.51 points shy of joining the top tier in global cybersecurity standards, which recognizes excellence in laws, technology, organizations, training, and international cooperation. The country’s move from Tier 3, categorized as “Evolving,” to Tier 2, known as “Advancing,” reflects progress in areas such as technical skills development, international collaboration, and improved organizational structure.
“Our hard work to protect Filipinos online is bearing fruit, but we are not stopping here,” DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said in a media advisory.
Uy emphasized that while the recent improvements are notable, the country is focused on further advancements.
This comes amid reports of hacking and breaches of government websites in recent years and months.
Much of the progress is attributed to the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028. This initiative was reinforced by an executive order mandating its adoption across all government agencies to fortify defenses against cyberattacks.
According to the DICT, with this upward trend, the Philippines is positioning itself as a key player in global cybersecurity, aiming for an even stronger digital protection framework for its citizens.