Amending Cybersecurity Awareness Month to October

The State policy in Section 2 of Republic Act No. 10844 requires the protection of consumer welfare, including advancing data privacy and security, fostering competition, and supporting ICT sector growth.
Section 2 of Republic Act No. 10173 mandates securing and protecting personal data in information and communications systems in both government and the private sector.
Section 5 of Republic Act No. 10844 establishes the DICT as the primary administrative entity for planning, developing, and promoting the national ICT development agenda.
Section 7 of Republic Act No. 10173 assigns the National Privacy Commission (NPC) responsibility for monitoring and ensuring compliance with international standards on data protection.
The proclamation ties its timing amendment to government cybersecurity priorities reflected in the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028 and to coordination with international cybersecurity observance.

The amendment aims to synchronize the Philippines with the international observance of “Cybersecurity Awareness Month” in October.
The amendment reinforces a unified approach in the digital era of governance by aligning domestic observance with global practice.

The annual observance of “Cybersecurity Awareness Month” is transferred from September to October of every year.
The amendment operates by changing the observance month established by Proclamation No. 2054 (s. 2010).

The DICT, in coordination with the NPC and other relevant government agencies, shall lead the observance of the Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
The DICT, in coordination with the NPC and other relevant government agencies, shall identify the programs, projects, and activities for the yearly celebration.
The DICT shall ensure that the identified programs, projects, and activities are consistent with international best practices.

All other national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, and state universities and colleges, are directed to support the DICT and participate in the annual observance.
Local government units, non-government organizations, and the private sector are encouraged to render necessary support to the DICT.
Participants are directed or encouraged to actively participate in the annual observance of the Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October each year.

The proclamation is signed by FERDINAND R. MARCOS, JR., with LUCAS P. BERSAMIN as Executive Secretary.
The proclamation was done in the City of Manila on October 02, 2023.