DICT and Google Philippines join forces for cybersecurity education program

Jeffrey Ian Dy, Assistant Secretary at DICT, said "DICT aims to provide these Google Cybersecurity Certificates to government employees to improve their skills in responding to cybersecurity incidents and to identify basic cybersecurity needs of their agencies."

Dy, who is the Asec for Cybersecurity and Upskilling, emphasized that creating a cyber-safe culture is essential. "We need cybersecurity champions in every level and field, especially in government. With these trainings, we hope we can increase the level of competence of our government employees in promoting a trusted, secure, and resilient cyberspace for every Filipino." Dy added.

"Creating more pathways for Filipinos to acquire the right digital skills and to competitively enter the cybersecurity field is essential. Google is deeply committed to working closely with our local partners across the public and private sectors to help develop the next generation of cybersecurity workforce and experts in the country," said Bernadette Nacario, Country Director, Google Philippines.

The program is part of the DICT's Cybersecurity Master Plan, which aims to make the Philippines a regional leader in cybersecurity. The plan includes several initiatives to strengthen the country's cybersecurity posture.

The continuing partnership between Google Philippines and DICT is an example of a public-private partnership that benefits the Filipino people. This is in line with the President's directive to enhance capacity building in ICT, especially in the field of cybersecurity. The program is open to all government employees interested in a cybersecurity career.