Public awareness about data privacy grew from 13 percent in 2017 to 25 percent in 2021 driven by the explosion in the use of social media, a recent survey commissioned by the National Privacy Commission (NPC) showed.

NPC said the survey conducted by the Philippine Survey and Research Center (PSRC) was held from October to November 2021. The survey's respondents are males and females aged 18 years old and above from ABCDE income homes.

The PSRC survey measured public awareness, practices, and perception of data protection and privacy issues. These results will help the Commission in monitoring the progress and impact of its activities, and to aid in developing evidence-based policies, programs, and projects.

In contrast to the steep increase in data privacy awareness, the survey also showed that most of those with internet access still lack awareness on internet security, with only 9 percent awareness of appropriate social media usage.

The survey found that data privacy awareness is concentrated in the National Capital Region (NCR), balance Luzon and urban areas, where internet ownership, or those who own or have access to the internet, is highest. Furthermore, the survey also found that dissemination of information through social media channels (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, YouTube) and television contributed to the growth of public awareness and knowledge.

Grassroots approach Awareness of the DPA has a significant effect on how respondents perceive the relevance of data privacy. The survey found that individuals who consider the DPA relevant are aware of data privacy and can effectively articulate how it protects one’s information.

Conversely, those who find the DPA irrelevant lack data privacy awareness. To address the continuous need to increase data privacy awareness, the Commission plans to utilize a grassroots approach.

Interest among younger people, high satisfaction in NPC The survey found that respondents are satisfied with the NPC, showing a 41 percent satisfaction and 36 percent trust rating, with NCR, Mindanao, urban areas, ABC sector, and younger segments registering high scores. Satisfied individuals are able to articulate how the NPC protects them (e.g., to protect personal information, protect data privacy, for security).

Respondents who gave a satisfactory rating believe that NPC upholds its mandate in protecting the people’s data privacy rights. They can also articulate how the Commission protects its stakeholders from personal data misuse and abuse.

In using social media as a medium to disseminate information, data privacy awareness is expected to increase among younger adults in the 18 to 29 age group.

The survey found that this particular age group exhibits the highest interest in learning data privacy. In recognizing the importance of instilling a culture of data privacy in the youth to create a better digital landscape for future generations, the NPC currently implements Kabataang Digital, an advocacy campaign for the youth, aimed at raising awareness on data privacy principles and promoting online safety among children.

NPC Commissioner John Henry D. Naga said NPC recognizes the importance of continuously promoting data privacy awareness, most especially in locations such as rural areas and those in the lower economic classes. With that, Naga said NCP is planning to focus its efforts in increasing data privacy and protection awareness, which in effect will educate and empower data subjects, making them less vulnerable to data privacy abuses.

“Heightened awareness and familiarity with data privacy concepts and the DPA is essential in improving public satisfaction, trust, and engagement with the NPC,” Naga added.