Themed “Strengthening the Nation’s Digital Resilience,” the recent symposium brought together industry leaders and experts to emphasize the critical need for a united approach to digital security. The event underscored the Philippines’ increasing demand for robust cybersecurity measures in the face of growing digital threats.
Kicking off the day was a compelling keynote address by Engr. Jose Carlos P. Reyes, Director IV of the Cybersecurity Bureau at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). He presented the National Cybersecurity Plan 2023–2028, laying the foundation for an engaging lineup of expert insights and panel discussions. These sessions delved into innovative solutions and strategies designed to combat evolving cyber threats, fostering a proactive and secure digital landscape for the nation.
Expert Insight Sessions covered diverse topics:
- Mr. Alexis Bernardino, Chief Cybersecurity Evangelist at ePLDT, discussed the intersection of AI and cybersecurity in his talk, “The Digital Crossroads of AI and Cybersecurity.”
- Mr. Jan Michael Espino, CEO of Vanguard Screening Solutions Inc., explored practical strategies for cybersecurity in SMEs.
- Mr. Khairul Azam Ahmad, Business Development Manager at Cysecure, provided actionable insights on managing cybersecurity threats exposure.
These sessions finished with fireside chats, where experts engaged in dynamic discussions, addressing audience questions and sharing actionable strategies to fortify critical sectors and safeguard digital infrastructures.
One of the highlights of the event was the Industry Awards Ceremony, recognizing exceptional contributions to cybersecurity innovation and leadership. The awardees were:
- Cybersecurity Woman of the Year: Col Francel Margareth Padilla-Taborlupa
- Best CISO of the Year: Alexis Bernardino – PLDT Enterprise
- Cybersecurity Innovator of the Year: ePLDT and PLDT Enterprise
- Outstanding Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP): Trends & Technologies, Inc.
- Best Financial Data Protection: GoTyme Bank
- Cybersecurity Excellence of the Year: Information Security Officer Group (ISOG)
- Winner of the CTF Competition: Recognized for exceptional technical prowess during the day’s Capture the Flag challenge.
The Cybersecurity Symposiums Philippines 2024 honored outstanding individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to strengthening cybersecurity frameworks and driving digital transformation.
A highlight of the event was the series of hands-on cybersecurity workshops led by SOCradar and PICUS. These sessions equipped attendees with practical tools and strategies to tackle the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape. Networking sessions further enriched the experience, providing a platform for professionals to exchange ideas, forge connections, and collaborate on future initiatives critical to advancing both national and global cybersecurity efforts.
“The insights shared during this symposium are invaluable in addressing the evolving challenges of cybersecurity while fostering innovation,” said Clarissa Jacob, Event Manager at Asia Symposiums. “As organizers, we believe events like Cybersecurity Symposiums 2024 play a vital role in shaping the future of cybersecurity through education, collaboration, and recognition of excellence.”
Bringing together some of the brightest minds in the field, the symposium ignited a powerful movement toward innovation and partnership. It reinforced the importance of cybersecurity as a cornerstone of sustainable growth and transformative progress, leaving attendees inspired and ready to make cybersecurity a fundamental priority in the digital era.
