Pioneering Cybersecurity and AI Strategies: GRC Philippines Conclave 2025

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The inaugural Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Philippines Conclave, held on January 17, 2025, at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati, marked a transformative moment for the nation's technology landscape. Bringing together over 150 organizations from key industries such as IT, BFSI (Banking, Finance Services, and Insurance), BPO, and E-commerce, the event emphasized the urgent need for robust cybersecurity frameworks and responsible AI adoption in an era of evolving digital threats.

Uniting Industry Leaders to Tackle Emerging Threats

Keynote speakers and panels addressed the dual-edged nature of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity. While AI offers groundbreaking opportunities for automation and fraud detection, it also lowers the barriers for cyberattacks.

Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary of Infostructure Management at the DICT, highlighted this paradox:

“The barrier of entry for cyber-attacks has decreased because of AI.”

Dy shared that the DICT monitors up to 1.7 to 2 million cyber threats per month, underscoring the increasing complexity of the digital landscape. The call to action was clear: collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial to secure the Philippines' digital infrastructure.

The Human-AI Synergy in Financial Security

In the fintech and banking sectors, industry leaders discussed how malicious actors exploit technology, particularly through phishing schemes and scam links in SMS messages.

John Patrick Lita (ING) and Carlos Tengkiat (RCBC) highlighted the need to balance AI adoption with human oversight, ensuring ethical deployment in fraud detection and financial advisory.

Marlon Sorongon (Maybank) and Lawrence Ferrer (CIS Bayad Center) emphasized continuous education for both employees and customers, advocating for increased awareness about emerging threats.

Tengkiat summed it up best:

“[Companies] should temper AI with human knowledge.”

Empowering Women in Cybersecurity and AI

A key highlight of the event was the focus on gender inclusivity in the tech space. Col. Francel Margareth Padilla-Taborlupa, spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, spotlighted the critical role of women in cybersecurity and national security.

“Walang mahirap o mayaman sa information domain,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of citizen participation in combating misinformation and securing the digital landscape.

The panel featuring Mel Migrino (WiSAP President), Majorie Labindao (AltPaynet), and Arlene Romasanta (DENR) further explored how women are shaping the future of AI and GRC. Migrino pointed out that biases in AI systems must be addressed, while Labindao stressed the importance of staying updated in the ever-evolving technological field.

Cybersecurity: A Matter of Survival

Robert Sanchez Paguia of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) shared alarming insights:

“Most companies that suffer from attacks or data breaches…cannot recover anymore, they go bankrupt.”

Paguia emphasized the necessity of basic cybersecurity practices, such as using strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and regularly monitoring bank statements. These measures are especially crucial in a digital ecosystem where cybercriminals are constantly innovating.

Building Trust and Compliance in a Digital Era

The conclave underscored the importance of trust and compliance between companies, regulatory bodies, and consumers. Salil Sankaran, President of Ampcus Group, set the tone in his opening remarks:

“It is not only our responsibility to grow our magnitude, but we will make sure that we do it ethically, we do it with utmost integrity, and sustainability is the goal of it.”

Ampcus Cyber Chief Officer Deep Chanda echoed this sentiment, advocating for open collaboration:

“Companies today cannot just sit in one closed room and talk about security… these events are the best place to get united to share our thoughts, to share our problems, and how to look at the next-gen tools.”

A Safer Digital Future for the Philippines

As AI technologies become integral to businesses and daily life, events like the GRC Philippines Conclave 2025 serve as crucial platforms for addressing the risks and opportunities associated with these advancements. With leaders from various sectors coming together, the Philippines is taking a proactive stance in shaping a secure, innovative, and inclusive technological future.

The journey ahead is fraught with challenges, but the spirit of collaboration and resilience demonstrated at the conclave offers hope for a safer, smarter digital Philippines.

"Incognito": A Promising Start to an Action-Packed Series or Just Hype?

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The buzz around Incognito, the latest series starring Daniel Padilla, has been nothing short of explosive. While the opinions are divided, there's no denying the attention it's garnered both online and offline. Let's dive into the hype, the criticisms, and everything in between.

Astig Ba Talaga?

Many netizens are raving about Incognito's first episode, calling it nothing short of a Hollywood-level production. The action sequences are being described as "bongga" and "pang climax agad." The praise isn't limited to the fight scenes alone—viewers are impressed with the authenticity brought by the on-location shoots, a rare treat in an era where green screens often dominate.

“Pilot episode pa lang hook na agad,” one fan said. “Walang makakapigil sa aming manood kahit anong issue pa sa kanila!”

Indeed, the series doesn't shy away from delivering high-octane action right out of the gate. The question is: Can Incognito sustain this momentum throughout its run?

Daniel Padilla: The Action Star We Didn’t Expect

Daniel Padilla, known for his rom-com charm, has taken a bold leap into the action genre. Fans are lauding his performance, calling him "ang galing dito!" and emphasizing his versatility as an actor. Alongside him, the supporting cast has also been praised for their compelling performances, with many saying, "Walang tapon. Walang puchu-puchu."

However, not everyone is on board. Critics argue that while Padilla shines, the series leans heavily on his star power, risking overshadowing the narrative itself.

The Good, The Bad, and The Fake News

While the series is undeniably creating waves, some controversies have emerged. Social media platforms have seen claims that Incognito is the #1 show on Netflix. 

This sparked debates online, with some accusing ABS-CBN fans of spreading "fake news" to boost the show's image.

“These trolls are getting worse in the Philippines,” a netizen commented, emphasizing the need for honest representation.

On the flip side, supporters argue that ranking isn't everything. They believe Incognito deserves praise for stepping away from the typical ABS-CBN fare of love stories and revenge dramas.

Breaking the Mold or Sticking to Formulas?

One common critique of Incognito is that it may still fall into familiar ABS-CBN patterns—action sequences intertwined with revenge arcs. While some viewers appreciate the network's efforts to branch out into the action genre, others feel they still play it safe.

“Napag-iwanan na kayo ABS-CBN,” one critic remarked. “Takot sumubok sa ibang genre.”

This feedback highlights a broader challenge for Philippine TV networks to innovate while meeting audience expectations. Incognito’s success might depend on its ability to truly break free from formulaic storytelling.

The Verdict So Far

The debut of Incognito has left audiences at a crossroads. For some, it’s a thrilling, high-budget production that finally brings Filipino action to global streaming platforms like Netflix. For others, it’s a promising concept that risks being dragged down by overhyped marketing and conventional storytelling.

What’s undeniable, though, is the attention it’s drawing—not just locally but also from Filipino communities abroad. Whether it climbs the Netflix rankings or fizzles out in later episodes, Incognito has already sparked conversations about the future of Philippine entertainment.

What’s Next?

With the next episode just around the corner, fans are eagerly awaiting how the story unfolds. Will it continue to deliver blockbuster-quality action, or will it fall victim to the criticisms that often plague local productions? One thing’s for sure—Incognito has people talking, and in today’s media landscape, that’s half the battle won.

Are you team Incognito or team “hype lang ‘yan”? Let us know your thoughts!

Why 'Kamote Riders' Are Turning Our Roads Into Chaos—and What We Can Do About It!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In the Philippines, the term "kamote," which refers to the sweet potato, has evolved into a colloquial label for motorcycle riders who exhibit reckless and undisciplined behavior on the roads. These individuals, often dubbed "kamote riders," are notorious for flouting traffic regulations, thereby endangering themselves and others. Understanding the origins and implications of this term sheds light on broader issues of road safety and cultural nuances in the country.

Origins of the Term "Kamote Rider"

The association between "kamote" and errant behavior dates back to educational practices during the American colonial period in the Philippines. Teachers would admonish underperforming students by suggesting they "go home and plant kamote," implying that their perceived lack of intelligence suited them only for manual agricultural labor. Over time, "kamote" became synonymous with foolishness or incompetence. This derogatory connotation eventually extended to describe motorcycle riders who disregard traffic laws, branding them as "kamote riders." 

Common Infractions Among "Kamote Riders"

"Kamote riders" are frequently observed committing various traffic violations, including:

Speeding: Exceeding posted speed limits, often in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.

Running Red Lights: Ignoring traffic signals, thereby increasing the risk of collisions.

Counterflowing: Driving against the flow of traffic to bypass congestion, posing hazards to oncoming vehicles.

Dangerous Overtaking: Passing other vehicles in prohibited zones, such as areas marked with double solid lines.

Driving Under the Influence: Operating motorcycles while impaired by alcohol or drugs, significantly impairing judgment and reaction times. 

Cultural and Societal Factors

The proliferation of "kamote riders" can be attributed to several factors:

Accessibility of Motorcycles: The affordability and availability of motorcycles have led to a surge in ownership, particularly among the low to middle-income population. This increase has not always been matched with adequate rider education and training.

Lax Enforcement of Traffic Laws: Inconsistent enforcement and the perception of impunity encourage some riders to flout regulations without fear of repercussions.

Socioeconomic Pressures: For many, motorcycles are essential for livelihood, leading some to prioritize expedience over adherence to traffic laws.

Recent Incidents and Public Perception

The term "kamote rider" has gained traction in public discourse, especially with incidents involving individuals in positions of authority. In September 2021, two police officers were caught performing dangerous stunts on official motorcycles in Zambales. The Philippine National Police condemned the act, emphasizing that such behavior would not be tolerated, particularly among law enforcers who are expected to model lawful conduct. 

Efforts to Address the Issue

Addressing the challenges posed by "kamote riders" requires a multifaceted approach:

Enhanced Rider Education: Implementing comprehensive training programs focusing on road safety and responsible riding practices.

Strict Law Enforcement: Ensuring consistent application of traffic laws to deter violations and promote accountability.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about the dangers of reckless riding and fostering a culture of mutual respect among all road users.

By understanding the roots and ramifications of the "kamote rider" phenomenon, stakeholders can work collaboratively to promote safer roads and cultivate a more disciplined riding community in the Philippines.