ASEAN documents in 'unauthorized disclosure' administrative only --- DICT
By Jel Santos
(DICT)
Initial assessments found that documents reported to have been leaked in connection with ASEAN 2026 preparations were purely administrative and did not contain sensitive policy or deliberative materials, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said on Friday, Jan. 16.
“Based on initial assessments, the documents are preparatory and administrative in nature and do not include substantive ASEAN agenda papers, official deliberations, or policy discussions. There is currently no indication that ASEAN systems, platforms, or classified deliberative materials were compromised,” the agency said in a statement.
The DICT said it is aware of reports regarding the unauthorized disclosure of a limited set of documents related to ASEAN 2026 activities to be hosted by the Philippines.
Despite the initial finding that no critical systems were breached, the DICT said authorities are conducting a full investigation to determine how the documents were disclosed.
“The Philippine National Police, in coordination with relevant law enforcement and intelligence agencies, is conducting an active investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident,” it said.
According to the agency, it is coordinating closely with investigators to support technical efforts.
The DICT also said it is tightening cybersecurity measures as preparations for ASEAN 2026 continue.
“As part of its mandate, the DICT is further strengthening cybersecurity measures for ASEAN 2026 venues, digital infrastructure, and inter-agency coordination mechanisms.”
However, the agency said it could not provide further operational details at this time due to the sensitivity of the matter.
“Given the ongoing investigation and the sensitivity of the matter, the DICT will not discuss operational details at this time,” the DICT said.
It added that briefings are being conducted through official channels with concerned stakeholders.
“Appropriate briefings are being held through official channels with relevant stakeholders, including ASEAN counterparts,” DICT added.