Innovative initiatives have led to technological advancements that have made processes easier, faster, and more efficient. This phenomenon highlights the deep interconnectedness and interdependence of the international community in the digital world. As the world works to structure a digital order, economic, defense, diplomatic, and social ties among various sectors will continue to evolve. Along with the benefits of technology, new security risks have soared in cyberspace that affect states, civil organizations, the private sector, and large populations. As a new domain of security, cybersecurity is gaining traction in government priorities and strategies as it exposes current gaps and vulnerabilities. The invisible threats and their extensive impact on a wide public will continue to challenge the peace and stability of the present security landscape.

Cyber tactics will continue to evolve; therefore, navigating the complex and evolving cyber landscape is critical for the international community. Digital security, thus, becomes a critical component of foreign and security policies. In a data-driven society, international cooperation in cybersecurity is a driving force in securing an interconnected digital world.

In the Philippine setting, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. declared that “cybersecurity is also a priority, as it impacts both national and economic security.”  He recognized that building critical infrastructure will require cybersecurity measures in managing various sectors, including defense, agriculture, and manufacturing. With this, the Philippines must increase its ability to detect, manage, respond to, and prevent cyber-attacks and implement strategies to build a cyber-resilient society.

In line with these developments, the Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines, organized a two-day conference entitled, “Fortifying Cyber Cooperation Towards Digital Security”, on January 16 – 17, 2024 (Tuesday and Wednesday) from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (PHT). This event was the inaugural activity to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Canada.  

The two-day conference gathered relevant stakeholders in cybersecurity in the Philippines and the international community. This included members of the government, private sector, cyber experts, academe, and civil society organizations, who shared their knowledge and explored innovative solutions to counter cyber risks and ensure digital security.