DICT, Russian firm ink cybersecurity agreement

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has tapped BiZone Ltd. Liability Co. of Russia for the enhancement of cybersecurity in the country.

A memorandum of understanding was signed recently between the two parties covering a “mutual response to cybersecurity incidents.”

Under the MOU, DICT and BiZone are set to undertake exchange of information on actual cyberthreats, as well as exchange of information on cybersecurity policies and technologies.

“Cybersecurity is everybody’s business. Everybody is concerned on the cybersecurity issues that has been threatening the way of life of our citizens. ICT cannot move forward if we do not arrest the threats of cyber crimes,” Information and Communications Technology Secretary Eliseo Rio said.

With Russia among the world leaders in terms of addressing cyber threats, Rio said the partnership with state-owned BiZone serves as a first step toward a possible government to government agreement with Russia on cybersecurity.

“Right now it’s just exchange of information, exchange of capabilities. We hope to come up with a list of what the Philippines need that can Russia can offer us,” he said.

Rio said the partnership with BiZone would help attract more investments in the country “because they know these will eliminate cybersecurity threats.”