Strengthening Cyber Defense Capabilities Amid Emerging Threats

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The rapid advancement of new technologies has enabled, and continues to enable, economic growth in the Indo-Pacific. It has facilitated inter-regional connectivity, enabled the streamlining of government services, and empowered businesses to thrive in a more competitive environment. These opportunities ultimately ideated and shaped one of the significant national objectives shared by states—digital transformation. 

However, the emergence of new technologies has also brought on cybersecurity risks not only on an individual level, but also to the wider economic and national security. Geopolitical developments and malign interests have pushed actors to employ both military and nonmilitary instruments to advance their respective goals.

Cyber espionage, cyber warfare, and the use of the artificial intelligence-enabled disinformation campaigns are utilized to undermine international law.

In the case of the Philippines, the past eight months of 2024 has seen increased cyber-attacks to various critical assets such as illegal access to government websites and data breaches to major businesses. Likewise, there have been multiple cases highlighting the proliferation of fraudulent activities such as swindling, hacking and identity theft which cause irreparable harm to victims.

Given the interconnectedness of today’s multipolar world, it is critical to conduct a cyber threat assessment landscape and employ strategies to ensure the security of the cyber domain. Doing so entails integrating cyber security in the operations of both the public and private sector and leveraging cyber diplomacy by working with like-minded partners.

In line with this, the Stratbase ADR Institute in partnership with the APAC EXPO Pte Ltd. is organizing a two-day conference entitled “Strengthening Cyber Defense Capabilities Amid Emerging Threats”. This will be held alongside the Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) Exhibition on September 26 and 27, 2024 (Thursday and Friday) from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (PHT) at the World Trade Center, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue corner Diosdado 

Macapagal Boulevard, Pasay City.

The event seeks to bring together key stakeholders in the government, diplomatic community, academe, regional experts, and industry practitioners to discuss the evolution of the cyber threat landscape, generate insights and recommendations on building effective cyber defense strategies, and explore the integration of cybersecurity and national security.

Strengthening Cyber Defense Capabilities Amid Emerging Threats

September 26 and 27, 2024 (Thursday and Friday) | 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (PHT) 

World Trade Center, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue corner Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Pasay City

Miners Coalition Finalizes Proposed Amendments to People’s Small-Scale Mining Act

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Officers of the National Coalition of Small-Scale Miners in the Philippines, Inc. (NCSSMPI), along with representatives from the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP), International Labor Organization (ILO), BAN Toxics, and the Mining and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the DENR, concluded a two-day roundtable discussion on the proposed amendments to RA 7076, or the People’s Small-Scale Mining Act.

Held on September 19 and 20, 2024, at the TUCP Office in Quezon City, attendees reviewed and suggested further revisions to House Bill (HB) 6408, titled “An Act Amending Republic Act No. 7076, Otherwise Known as ‘An Act Creating a People's Small-Scale Mining Program, and for Other Purposes.’” HB 6408 was filed in Congress on November 28, 2022 by Deputy House Speaker Raymond Democrito Mendoza of the TUCP Partylist. On August 28, 2024, the bill was approved by the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.

According to NCSSMPI’s newly elected president, Josephine Balonga, the coalition has been pushing for amendments to RA 7076 since its founding in 2016. “The 30-year-old RA 7076 is already outdated. Its provisions generally hinder the full potential of the small-scale mining sector.”

The proposed amendments in HB 6408 seek to address the exorbitant costs of formalizing a Minahang Bayan or People’s Mining Area, the limited validity of mining contracts, and the legal barriers posed by the current definition of small-scale mining under RA 7076, among others.

Currently, RA 7076’s definition of small-scale mining restricts miners to manual labor and rudimentary tools, prohibiting the use of modern machinery and other methods. The law also limits small-scale miners from extracting minerals other than gold.

Balonga also noted that the application requirements for legalizing or formalizing small-scale mining operations are nearly the same as those for large-scale mining, which she described as “unfair and difficult for the sector because small-scale miners do not have the same resources as large-scale operations.”

“As small-scale miners, we aim to contribute directly to our nation’s wealth while ensuring environmentally sustainable mining practices. But we can only do this if we are formalized and supported by our government,” Balonga added.

There are an estimated 500,000 artisanal and small-scale gold miners in the country, with millions more indirectly relying on the sector for their livelihoods. According to research by BAN Toxics, the sector is closely linked to extreme poverty and is generally considered illegal in the country. The industry remains heavily unregulated, with incidents of fatal accidents, child labor, inhumane working conditions, and rampant use of highly toxic mercury.

Arleen Honrade, of BAN Toxics’ Community Development Unit and the Coalition Secretary, emphasized that, aside from amending RA 7076, the government should also explore ways to support mercury-free technologies for small-scale miners.

Small-scale gold mining accounts for an estimated 70-80% of the country’s total gold reserves. Small-scale miners are mandated by law to channel their gold produce to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

According to Balonga, the Coalition will intensify its lobbying and campaign efforts in the coming weeks to gather support from lawmakers.

Blogapalooza Leads Advocacy for Children’s Wishes with Project Headshot Clinic

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Blogapalooza, the Philippines' premier influencer marketing company, took a stand for hope and unity through a meaningful campaign benefiting children with critical illnesses. In collaboration with Project Headshot Clinic and Make-A-Wish Philippines, the event brought together creators, influencers, and advocates for a cause that aims to grant the wishes of children facing critical health challenges.

“This initiative is about more than just bringing people together; it’s about showing these children that they are not alone in their battles,” said Ace Gapuz, CEO of Blogapalooza. “By partnering with influencers and creators, we’re using the power of digital platforms to amplify a message of hope and resilience.”

With the theme centered around the Japanese legend of folding 1,000 origami cranes—symbolizing strength and solidarity—the event was held during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Every photo taken during the event symbolized a crane, with proceeds going directly to Make-A-Wish Philippines, an organization dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of children battling serious conditions, including cancer.

While Project Headshot Clinic, spearheaded by conceptual photographer Niccolo Cosme, played a key role in providing the visual element of the campaign, Blogapalooza ensured that influencers and creators rallied behind the cause to maximize its reach. “It’s inspiring to witness influencers leverage their platforms for something that truly matters. We’re proud to have united them for this advocacy,” Gapuz added.

Cosme, who is known for turning headshots into advocacy movements, said, “Through this collaboration, we were able to create a visual representation of the hope we all have for these children. Every headshot taken reflects that shared hope and support.”

The event saw participation from key influencers, including Blogapalooza BX talents such as Chal Maling, Rozel Basilio, Ezra Mane, and Chef Gelo Guison, alongside well-known figures like Macoy Dubs, Alec Cuenca, Jako de Leon, and Diana Meneses.

“We are grateful to our partners and sponsors like Korea Garden PH and Aperture Philippines for helping us bring this advocacy to life,” Gapuz said.

As Blogapalooza continues to champion meaningful campaigns, Gapuz emphasized, “This is just one of many steps we’re taking to use our influence for positive change. We’ll continue to bring people together, share their stories, and offer hope to those who need it most.” 

About Blogapalooza 

Blogapalooza is the Philippines' premier influencer marketing company, connecting brands with content creators, influencers, and digital personalities. With a commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and promoting positive change, Blogapalooza empowers influencers to use their platforms for social good. As a leader in the industry, Blogapalooza has spearheaded numerous campaigns aimed at amplifying important causes, while also providing brands with innovative and impactful marketing solutions. Through its events, collaborations, and digital initiatives, Blogapalooza continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of influencer marketing in the country.