Caraga: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT-13) spearheaded "HackforGov Capture the Flag 2025" on Friday, challenging students from across the Caraga Region. DICT-13 said the event serves as a platform for discovering and shaping the region's next generation of cyber defenders, highlighting the need for technical readiness and innovation against digital threats.

According to Philippines News Agency, twelve teams, comprising a total of 48 students from state universities, colleges, and higher education institutions, joined the cybersecurity competition. "Students proved their skills in ethical hacking, digital forensics, and cyber threats analysis," Menkent Barcelon, DICT-13 cybersecurity focal person, said.

Participants tackled real-world scenarios on a DICT-owned platform, tracking vulnerabilities, cracking puzzles, and defending virtual networks. Winning teams will represent the Caraga Region at the national competition next month. Winners could avail of further DICT training. Barcelon noted that past champions have been hired by government and private institutions.