Enhanced Collaboration between NPC and PNP-ACG for Reinforced Cybercrime Deterrence and Data Security Measures
The National Privacy Commission (NPC) and the Philippine National Police - Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) have joined forces in a significant partnership aimed at addressing issues at the intersection of data protection and cybercrime.
The memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed by NPC's Acting Director, Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang, and the PNP-ACG, outlines key initiatives to strengthen collaboration in this critical area.
The partnership will focus on mutual assistance and coordination in investigations of suspected data privacy violations, particularly those involving cross-border personal data incidents or breaches. Both agencies have agreed to exchange information related to ongoing or potential investigations and help enforce decisions and resolutions on data protection within their jurisdictions.
The MOU also promotes the development of mechanisms for trusted cross-border data flows, such as mutual recognition of comparable data protection frameworks and privacy certifications. It supports knowledge-sharing activities like joint training, education programs, and exchanges on emerging privacy trends.
Standardized processes and clear timelines are part of the mutual enforcement support, ensuring efficient and effective collaboration between the two agencies. Joint investigation and information-sharing protocols are included in the partnership, establishing a case referral system to facilitate seamless information exchange.
The partnership is also expected to contribute to a balance between enforcement and ethics, and action and accountability. It aligns with the Marcos administration's whole-of-government approach, reflecting a shared vision that privacy concerns require global collaboration.
The MOU, which takes effect immediately and will remain in effect for three years, is a significant step in the fight against cybercrime in the Philippines. It is intended to help in combating cybercrimes, strengthen the NPC's ability to address threats, respond to crises, and coordinate actions, and promote accountability in the digital space.
The signing ceremony took place at the PNP ACG Building, Camp Crame, Quezon City on Thursday. The collaboration between the NPC and PNP-ACG is a testament to the commitment of both agencies to protect the privacy rights of Filipinos in the digital age.
[1] http://www.npc.gov.ph/press-releases/npc-pnp-acg-sign-mou-to-strengthen-collaboration-on-data-protection-and-cybercrime-issues/ [2] https://www.pnp.gov.ph/press-releases/pnp-acg-npc-sign-mou-to-strengthen-collaboration-on-data-protection-and-cybercrime-issues/ [4] https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/05/13/business/business-top/npc-pnp-acg-partner-to-strengthen-data-protection-and-combat-cybercrime/1344264/
- This partnership between the National Privacy Commission (NPC) and the Philippine National Police - Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), signed in Manila, involves a focus on concurrently combating cybersecurity threats and ensuring adherence to data privacy laws, particularly in technology-driven environments.
- As part of the memorandum of understanding between the NPC and the PNP-ACG, steps are being taken to enhance mutual assistance and coordination in investigations of cybercrimes, including data privacy violations, within both domestic and international digital spaces.
