Collaboration Key to Fighting Cyber Threats - Smart

For mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), intra-industry collaboration is key to strengthening the Philippine telco sector's fight against growing cybersecurity threats.

At a recent telco forum spearheaded by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), Smart Vice President and Head of Regulatory Affairs Atty Roy D. Ibay stressed the importance of exchanging best practices and threat intelligence in real time to safeguard customers from malicious activities such as scam links and phishing attempts.

“Cybersecurity is an ongoing battle that requires a collective effort. Smart remains committed to working closely with regulators, industry partners, and customers to build a more secure and resilient digital ecosystem,” Ibay said.

Themed 'Securing our Connectivity: Fortifying the PH Telecommunications Sector,' the ARTA-led forum featured representatives from government agencies, mobile network operators, independent tower companies, and other industry stakeholders.

In his presentation, Ibay outlined cybersecurity challenges faced by the company and the proactive measures being undertaken to mitigate cyber threats. Among those mentioned were network vulnerabilities brought about by new technologies, IoT security gaps, malicious apps and ransomware, and emerging threats like AI-powered cyberattacks.

"With vast amounts of sensitive user data at stake, there is a need for continuous adaptation of security measures to protect privacy and prevent breaches," Ibay added.

EO 32 primer launch

In addition to the discussion on the country's cybersecurity landscape, the forum also featured the launch of a primer on Executive Order No. 32 (EO 32), which streamlines the permitting process for the rollout of telco infrastructure. The Primer provides a step-by-step guide to permit applications, enabling fast, efficient, and transparent deployment of network infra.

"With this primer as our guide, we can move forward towards a Bagong Pilipinas that is connected, digitalized, and progressive," said ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez. "We would like to encourage local government units and national government agencies that have yet to comply with the requirements of EO 32 to do so as soon as possible. After all, we have our President and the law on our side."

Since 2019, Smart and its parent company, PLDT, have collaborated with government agencies, local government units, and industry stakeholders to streamline the permitting process to hasten telco infrastructure deployment. They also support the President’s directive to expand internet access in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), working with the Private Sector Advisory Council’s Digital Infrastructure sector and other telco providers.

These efforts align with PLDT’s commitment to digital inclusion, education, and economic growth while contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure.