NPC, DP Council Marks Triumph in Fostering Data Privacy Awareness Across the Philippines
The Data Privacy Council (DP Council), in cooperation with the National Privacy Commission (NPC), held the fourth and final leg of the Data Privacy Roadshow 2023 at Seda Nuvali Hotel, Sta. Rosa, Laguna on November 20, 2023. The Data Privacy Roadshow 2023 was made in pursuit of encouraging data privacy awareness and compliance, and promote the DP Council and its 26 sectoral councils. The conclusion of this nationwide initiative was made possible through partnerships with Insular Life and Ayala Corporation.
The Laguna leg drew a diverse audience, hosting over 320 Data Protection Officers (DPOs), Heads of Organizations, Compliance Officers for Privacy (COPs), DP Council Officers, and committed data privacy advocates from the National Capital Region (NCR), CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and other regions emphasizing the nationwide impact of the roadshow.
In his opening statement, Privacy Commissioner Atty. John Henry D. Naga lauded the DP Council President and Data Protection Officer (DPO) of San Miguel Corporation, Ms. Gelalyn V. Boquiren, for her commendable leadership. He also recognized the significant contributions of the DP Council members and NPC staff to the success of the Data Privacy Roadshow 2023. Commissioner Naga likewise extended his appreciation to all sponsors who supported the DP Council's flagship program during its run not only in Laguna but also in Clark, Cebu and Davao. The support of the sponsors enabled the empowerment of various individuals and organizations nationwide with crucial insights into data privacy matters.
"We are charting a new course for next year’s roadshow, shifting towards a more industry-specific or sector-based approach for the workshops. Now more than ever, it is vital to implement stronger security measures to ensure compliance and safeguard the personal data of the public,” the Privacy Chief said. He also encouraged companies to be part of the DP Council, emphasizing its pivotal role in helping organizations stay updated on NPC issuances and be informed about the latest developments in data privacy to efficiently respond to each sector’s specific needs.
As part of the program, Ms. Boquiren introduced the DP Council, its officers, and members, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening collaboration nationwide. Established in August 2019, the DP Council serves as a consultative body, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among sectoral stakeholders.
“With the successful conclusion of the Data Privacy Roadshow in Laguna, the DP Council, in cooperation with the NPC, marks a momentous achievement in fostering a culture of data privacy awareness and compliance across the entire Philippines. This nationwide initiative underscores the critical role of partnership, leadership, and education in advancing data privacy in the country.” Ms. Boquiren said.
The Data Privacy Roadshow featured distinguished speakers from the NPC, namely Atty. Anna Benjieline R. Puzon and Atty. Amor Venenoso of the Compliance and Monitoring Division who provided invaluable insights on Data Privacy Governance, Risk and Compliance. Atty. Ivy Grace Villasoto, and Engr. Janssen Esguerra also provided NPC Updates.
The DP Council, through the DPOs of various well-known corporations were likewise among the roster of speakers such as Atty. Russel Hernandez, Atty. Charlene Tapic-Castro, and Atty. Krishna Aira Tana-Caguia, who shared practical expertise on achieving substantial compliance.
The Data Privacy Roadshow 2023 conducted in Laguna serves as the last and final leg of this initiative to further strengthen data privacy compliance and boost sectoral participation.
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