TELECOM | Telcos, state forces unite to protect networks

The country’s major telecommunications companies are teaming up with government and military agencies to combat growing threats to telecom infrastructure, including cyberattacks, cable theft, and vandalism.

The National Telecommunications Security Council (NTSC), initially a private-sector alliance of corporate security officers from major telcos such as PLDT, Smart, Globe, DITO, Converge, and Sky Cable, is set to expand into a broader national defense initiative. The group aims to include the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine Coast Guard, and key government agencies like the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the National Telecommunications Commission.

During a recent consultation forum, telco security heads met with military and police officials to discuss strategies for improving emergency response and threat mitigation. Discussions centered on coordinating intelligence sharing and response protocols to address infrastructure sabotage, fraud, and cybersecurity incidents.

“The task before us is not just technical—it is strategic and national in scope,” said Smart COO Anastacio R. Martirez. “No single entity can address these threats alone. But together, through trust and shared responsibility, we can build a more secure digital future.”

NTSC Chair and DITO Telecommunity Security Director Col. Romeo Basco (Ret) emphasized plans to establish a unified threat coordination framework and regular consultations with state agencies. PLDT’s Col. Wilfredo Gonio (Ret) added that joint training and awareness programs on cyber threats are also in the pipeline.

PLDT COO Butch Jimenez described network security as “a cornerstone of nation-building,” committing to closer collaboration with both private and public sector partners.

Formed in 2021 by PLDT’s Asset Protection and Security Risk Governance team, the NTSC aims to safeguard critical telecom assets and ensure uninterrupted service nationwide. The council’s expanded efforts also align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of promoting resilient infrastructure and innovation.

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