Clark: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has called on the digital community of the Philippines to work with the government in helping protect the country's digital landscape.

According to Philippines News Agency, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda emphasized the need for collaboration during his remarks at the Rootcon Conference in Clark, Pampanga. He highlighted that the violence occurring during the nationwide protest against corruption on September 21 should not be repeated. Aguda stressed the importance of using digital skills to defend rather than divide, saying, "Online violence not only divides people, it tarnishes the credibility of our profession. We should be using our skills to protect, not to destroy."

To support the country's 'hackers' in their role as the 'immune system' of the nation's digital space, the DICT is taking steps to assure ethical hackers that they will be provided with a safe harbor and will not be treated as criminals when they report system vulnerabilities. Additionally, the DICT plans to introduce bug bounty programs for the eGovPH and free Wi-Fi initiatives, recognizing and rewarding ethical hackers for their contributions to national cyber defense.

Secretary Aguda also pledged transparency and openness to threat sharing, intending to involve the hacking community in Oplan Cyberdome, a comprehensive cybersecurity initiative. Moreover, the department plans to offer scholarships and skills training for cyber jobs while safeguarding the privacy and rights of citizens.

A significant development announced was the creation of the Philippine Cyber Security Private Sector Advisory Council (PCSPSAC). This council aims to institutionalize the involvement of the private sector and the hacker community in the nation's cybersecurity efforts.

"Hack hard, hack smart, hack for the nation. Let's defend the Philippines together," Aguda encouraged the audience.

Rootcon, recognized as the largest hacker conference in Southeast Asia, convenes hackers, security professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts. The conference included expert talks and workshops focused on network security, cryptography, and vulnerability research.