Manila: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Monday launched the 'Oplan Paskong Sigurado' (OPS) initiative aimed at enhancing the security of online platforms during the holiday season. DICT Secretary Henry Aguda announced that this program will work in conjunction with the upgraded 'OPLAN CyberDome' (OCD) to ensure the safety of online shopping platforms, e-wallet transactions, and remittances, which are often targeted by scammers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the OPS initiative encourages the public to remain vigilant against scams, report any suspicious activities, and enjoy a peaceful holiday season. The DICT also plans to intensify the operations of the OCD, a collaborative program involving law enforcement, telecommunication companies, and other partners focused on anti-scam efforts and cybersecurity monitoring.

The University of the Philippines Diliman Extension Program (UPDEPPO) has partnered with the DICT to offer the Cybersecurity Microcredentials Program (CMP), which aims to train more cybersecurity professionals. The Data Protection Officers of the Philippines (NADPOP) has indicated that the country requires approximately 180,000 experts to protect just 10 percent of its critical institutions and infrastructure.

The CMP includes three courses: Security Operations Center Readiness and Cyber Foundations; Threat Detection and Incident Handling; and Governance, Risk Management and Compliance (GRC) Essentials. Students will obtain certificates in advanced cyber defense and GRC through hands-on laboratory experience and actual incident investigation.

Aguda emphasized the importance of building domestic expertise in cybersecurity, stating, "We don't need to rely on other countries to solve our cyber problems. We can build schools and use the talent of our youth." Details regarding the enrollment procedure for the CMP will be announced through the official channels of the UPDEPPO and DICT.