Govt data classification, residency order welcomed by Globe

GLOBE Telecom Inc. on Sunday welcomed the issuance of Executive Order (EO) 119, calling it a positive step toward strengthening the country's cybersecurity and safeguarding the national interest."Executive Order No. 119 is a significant milestone in the country's digital transformation journey," Globe General Counsel Vicente Froilan Castelo said in a statement."It provides a clear, risk-based framework that protects our most sensitive government information while allowing agencies to continue harnessing modern digital technologies responsibly."The EO, titled "Updating the Government Data Classification, Establishing a Data Residency Framework and for Other Purposes" and signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 13, created an updated government data classification system and introduced residency requirements for highly sensitive government information.The order mandates that top secret and secret data must be stored within Philippine territory, including embassies and consulates, while confidential data should generally remain within the country but may be stored or processed offshore with appropriate approval and safeguards.Under the EO, cloud platforms can be used for restricted and open access data, subject to encryption, cybersecurity measures and internationally recognized standards.The Palace order also clarifies that it applies to government data only and does not regulate private sector or commercial data.Globe said the EO positioned the Philippines to build a more secure and trusted digital ecosystem, allowing the country to join others such as Australia, Singapore, India, and members of the European Union in adopting governance frameworks that balance innovation with strong data protection.As cyberthreats continue to target critical infrastructure and public institutions, clear policies on how sensitive government data is stored, processed and protected have become more important than ever, Globe said."Digital transformation succeeds only when people trust that government systems are secure," Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz said."The executive order strengthens that trust, ensuring sensitive government information receives the highest level of protection while allowing agencies to modernize responsibly."Globe shares on Friday added P46 to close at P1,870 apiece.