Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and other concerned government agencies to heighten vigilance against possible cyberattacks expected on November 5, Malaca±ang said on Tuesday. ‘The President directed the DICT and all cyber teams in government to be vigilant and prepare for the November 5 possible DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks,’ Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing, citing the statement of DICT Secretary Henry Aguda.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro stated that the DICT has activated Oplan Cyberdrome to ensure the protection of all digital government services, as well as privately operated critical information infrastructures such as banks, telecommunications companies, and hospitals. She added that Oplan Cyberdrome will allow the DICT to respond promptly to any DDoS attacks.

Castro assured the public that the government and private sectors are working hand in hand to ensure all digital services are available and secure. She noted that in the event of online disruptions, the public may avail of in-person services at government offices.

The DICT had earlier warned of possible DDoS attacks on November 5, targeting various websites and networks. A DDoS attack occurs when malicious actors flood a website with excessive traffic, causing it to slow down or crash. The DICT, however, assured the public that personal accounts, data, and money would remain secure.