The Philippines and Denmark have announced a plan to amplify digital security and information technology ties in response to increasing threats against the countries’ cyberspace.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Danish Ambassador to Manila Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin revealed the plan Tuesday at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
“The two officials… discussed possible cooperation between the Philippines and Denmark on cyber defense and information technology, putting premium in countering disinformation and in proactively addressing threats in the information ecosystem,” the Philippine Department of Defense said.
Alongside protecting the digital sphere, the officials discussed military cooperation to sustain national security against the “global security challenges” that are becoming “more unpredictable and volatile.”
Bolstering Strategic Collaboration
During the meeting, Mellbin acknowledged the Philippines’ advocacy for a rules-based international order concerning the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Teodoro, in return, appreciated the envoy’s stance in association with the recent Ayungin Shoal incident, where a Chinese Coast Guard vessel rammed a local boat conducting rotation and resupply tasks for the Philippine Navy’s BRP Sierra Madre tank landing ship.
The Danish ambassador said in his online statement that China’s intimidation in the West Philippine Sea “undermines regional security” and risked the Filipino sailors’ lives.
Further discussions are expected to establish the cybersecurity partnership and other defense agreements between the Philippines and Denmark.
Meanwhile, Mellbin invited the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard in Copenhagen to research, continue discussions of the law of the sea, and provide recommendations for the Danish military’s maritime technologies, defense, and doctrines.
“Secretary Teodoro welcomed the invitation, stating that this is a good opportunity in light of current defense realities,” the defense agency stated.
Recent Philippine Cybersecurity Projects
Earlier this month, the Philippines banned the use of artificial intelligence-enabled applications among military and defense personnel to decrease national security risks.
The software involves mobile programs that produce personal portraits and are deemed capable of “ identity theft, phishing attacks, and other malicious activities.”
The country also declared its intention to form an independent cyber defense command within its armed forces to enhance security against digital threats.