Cyber watchdogs urge Marcos to address risks in Konektadong Pinoy Bill

Cybersecurity and consumer watchdogs have urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to address cybersecurity risks in the 'Konektadong Pinoy Bill,' which aims to expand internet access but is now awaiting his signature.

Groups such as Scam Watch Pilipinas, Women in Security Alliance Philippines (WiSAP), and the Philippines Chief Information Officer Association (PCIOA) support the bill's goals but are concerned about provisions that may expose the country to heightened cyber threats.

One key issue highlighted is a three-year grace period for new Internet service providers (ISPs) to operate without cybersecurity certification, as mandated by Section 9 and Section 21 of the bill, which cannot be corrected through implementing rules and regulations.

The groups also noted that easing entry for foreign firms into building sensitive infrastructure could leave the country vulnerable to unauthorized data access or disruptions.

To address these concerns, the watchdogs proposed amendments such as removing the grace period for DTIPs and mandating formal vetting for all infrastructure providers involved in sensitive digital assets.

Despite the bill already awaiting Marcos' signature, cybersecurity safeguards must still be addressed to align with existing Philippine laws and protect the nation's digital infrastructure from evolving threats.