Safety and Security

Recommended Video: 12 Scams to Watch Out For During the Holiday Season

Philippine cybercrime authorities warn of surging online fraud and seasonal scam tactics targeting consumers during peak holiday sales. Enterprises should reinforce strict cybersecurity awareness among personnel to mitigate phishing and retail threat campaigns.

Analyst Notes: What We Can Learn from the Theft Incidents in Two UP Campuses, MRT

Recent thefts at university campuses and transit stations highlight the risk of petty crime. Medium and large enterprises should reinforce strict security protocols among personnel, emphasizing vigilance and the protection of company property outside the office.

DICT States November 5 Cyberattacks Unsuccessful

The Department of Information and Communications Technology reported that November 5 cyberattacks against government and banking websites failed. No data breaches occurred, though the Philippine National Police website was taken offline as a precaution.

Weekend Anti-Corruption Protests Generally Peaceful; Rumored Coup Attempt Unlikely

Anti-corruption rallies by religious and retired military groups caused heavy traffic in Manila and Quezon City but remained peaceful. Despite rumors of a military-led coup to unseat the president, security analysts monitor no credible force build-up or destabilization threat to businesses.

Philippines, Canada Sign Visiting Forces Agreement

The Philippines and Canada signed a Visiting Forces Agreement this November to formalize the deployment and training of troops. Awaiting Senate ratification, the pact bolsters security ties with allied nations amid maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

ANALYSIS: Unpacking Tropical Cyclones “Tino” and “Uwan”

Tropical cyclones Tino and Uwan hit the Philippines in November. Although Uwan was stronger, Tino caused far more casualties due to severe flash floods. This disparity highlights how gaps in risk perception and evacuation readiness can significantly worsen disaster outcomes.

Cybersecurity Updates – CICC: No GCash Breach; DICT Issues Nov 5 DDoS Warning

Government investigators dismissed rumors of a GCash data breach, confirming the leaked records are outdated and not from their systems. Separately, authorities warned of potential distributed denial of service cyberattacks on November 5, though specific targets and sources remain unknown.

Recommended Reading: Philippines, US Establish Task Force – Philippines

The Philippines and the United States established Task Force Philippines to enhance defense coordination and regional deterrence. Enterprises must monitor how this mechanism reinforces existing military pacts and influences maritime stability in the South China Sea.

Basilan Town Returns to Normalcy After October 28 Encounter

The security situation in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan has stabilized following a localized personal conflict. While normal business and government operations have resumed, the incident highlights the persistent risk of non-ideological violence that enterprises must monitor in the region.

Not Politics as Usual: Groups Raise Concerns for Bangsamoro Ahead of Parliamentary Polls

Groups Hold Scattered ‘Pocket Rallies’ Nationwide Amid Corruption in Flood Control Projects

COVID-19 Cases Up in the Philippines, Wave of Infections in Singapore

The Department of Health reports a slight rise in COVID-19 cases but maintains a low risk level. Despite a surge in Singapore from new variants, the Philippines will not impose travel restrictions or mask mandates. Enterprises should continue observing voluntary health protocols.