New DICT Cybersecurity Undersecretary Julius Gorospe Takes Oath of Office
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Julius Gorospe as the new Undersecretary for Cybersecurity at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), marking a significant step in bolstering the nation's digital defenses. The appointment, made on January 30, 2026, was followed by Gorospe's formal oath-taking ceremony on February 2, where he was sworn in by DICT Secretary Henry Aguda.
Extensive Background in Global Cybersecurity
Gorospe brings a wealth of international experience to this critical role, having worked in the United States and other countries across the globe. His educational credentials are equally impressive, holding advanced degrees in Technology Management from the prestigious Wharton School and in National Security Administration from the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP). Additionally, he possesses a degree in Computer Science, providing him with a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic insight necessary to address cybersecurity as both a technological challenge and a national security priority.
Commitment to Accelerating National Cybersecurity Initiatives
In his new capacity, Gorospe will lead the Philippines' cybersecurity efforts at a time when government services, business operations, educational systems, and daily communications are increasingly migrating to digital platforms. He expressed gratitude for the foundational work established by his predecessors, noting that current initiatives are well-aligned with the National Cybersecurity Plan. Gorospe has pledged to build upon these existing frameworks and accelerate implementation to ensure the country's cybersecurity posture continues to mature, delivering tangible protection for citizens, institutions, and the national economy.
"Important work has already been done to put Philippine cybersecurity on the right track. Our task now is to strengthen these foundations and move faster, together," Gorospe stated in a recent news release, emphasizing the urgency of collective action.
Embracing the Digital Bayanihan Approach
Central to Gorospe's strategy is the department's commitment to Digital Bayanihan, a leadership theme championed by DICT Secretary Henry Aguda that reflects a whole-of-nation approach to ICT infrastructure development. This philosophy recognizes that effective cybersecurity requires active participation from all sectors of society. Gorospe emphasized that strong cybersecurity is fundamentally built on collective defense and shared responsibility, with strategies anchored in cooperation among government agencies, the private sector, academic institutions, local communities, and individual citizens.
"Cybersecurity works best when everyone recognizes their role. Awareness of cyber threats helps protect our fellow Filipinos from becoming victims of cybercrime," the new undersecretary explained, highlighting the importance of public education and engagement.
Addressing Professional Shortages and Building Sustainable Systems
Gorospe also identified the critical shortage of cybersecurity professionals in the Philippines as a pressing concern. He called upon Filipino experts both domestically and abroad to contribute their skills to national cybersecurity efforts as part of broader nation-building initiatives. The undersecretary stressed the need to develop a sustainable cybersecurity ecosystem supported by forward-looking policies and active engagement from industry leaders, technology companies, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and local communities.
With what he described as a narrow window to enact lasting reforms, the DICT has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a secure, trusted, and inclusive digital environment. This vision is firmly anchored in principles of shared responsibility, collective action, and the enduring spirit of Digital Bayanihan that recognizes cybersecurity as a shared national endeavor requiring unified effort across all sectors of Philippine society.
