The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Tuesday, Sept. 17, expressed concern about the increasing number of Filipino information and communications technology (ICT) professionals leaving the country for better opportunities.
DICT Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson Renato “Aboy” Paraiso, during the televised Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, noted that the phenomenon of brain drain poses a significant challenge to the Philippine ICT sector, as it can impact its growth and innovation potential.
Paraiso emphasized that brain drain in the ICT sector is a “big challenge,” as Filipinos are recruited by other countries to become IT professionals and experts.
To address brain drain, Paraiso mentioned ongoing initiatives at DICT, such as continued upskilling for its employees.
“We shifted our focus; instead of hiring from the outside, we upskill our people from the inside,” Paraiso said in a mix of English and Filipino.
“We also appeal to their sense of patriotism by encouraging them to do something good for the country,” he added.
Paraiso also noted that the E-Government Bill, which includes provisions for the Magna Carta for ICT Workers, is pending before the Senate.
“This will provide additional incentives for ICT workers and encourage current government employees to stay due to competitive compensation,” he added.
Improved PH ranking in cybersecurity
Paraiso underscored the importance of maintaining a steady supply of ICT experts as the country achieved a significant improvement in its cybersecurity ranking.
Paraiso explained that the Philippines made an impressive leap in the 2024 United Nations Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI), moving up to 53rd from 61st in 2020.
According to the report released on Sept. 12, the Philippines’ cybersecurity score rose to 93.49 points from 77 points in 2020.
This progress, Paraiso said, places the Philippines just 1.51 points away from joining Tier 1, which includes the world’s top performers in cybersecurity laws, technology, organizations, training, and international cooperation.
“We always look towards international cooperation; we exchange ideas and technologies, and hopefully, we will reach that Tier 1 status,” Paraiso said.
DICT noted that this progress can be attributed to the government's focus on strengthening cybersecurity through the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028, which was formulated by the DICT.
In April 2024, President Marcos signed Executive Order No. 58, mandating all government agencies to adopt the NCSP 2023-2028, thereby ensuring better protection against cyberattacks and online threats.
With this momentum, DICT stated that the Philippines is “on track to become a global cybersecurity leader, ensuring a safe and secure online environment for every Filipino.”
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https://mb.com.ph/2024/9/17/philippines-inches-closer-to-becoming-a-global-cybersecurity-leader-dict