South Korea and Philippines Ink MOU to Enhance Data Protection Collaboration
Tokyo, Japan – The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) of the Republic of Korea and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) of the Republic of the Philippines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to build closer collaboration in strengthening their shared commitment to personal data protection on 26 November 2024.
The ceremonial signing took place during the 62nd Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities Forum and was signed by PIPC Chairperson Haksoo Ko and NPC Privacy Commissioner Atty. John Henry D. Naga. The MOU acknowledges the growing need for international cooperation in safeguarding personal data and enhancing privacy protection standards.
Chairperson Haksoo Ko remarked that this MOU reflects the PIPC’s commitment to enhancing international collaboration and cooperation in data protection in the digital era where AI (artificial intelligence) has become commonplace. “I hope this partnership will enhance interoperability among different data protection regimes in the Asia-Pacific region and bring benefits to both Korea and the Philippines,” he stated.
Privacy Commissioner Naga highlighted the relevance of the MOU in line with the increasing demand for personal data privacy and protection in the present international digital landscape, “This MOU is another step forward towards a coordinated global response to the continuously developing significance of data privacy. It bears to stress that personal data must be protected globally and should not be limited by geographic boundaries. In this regard, I look forward to the NPC and PIPC’s active partnership in championing data privacy and protection, especially within our own citizens.”
Key Areas of Collaboration
Through the MOU, the PIPC and the NPC emphasize the importance of data governance and cross-border data flows in supporting global trade within the digital economy. It also highlights both agencies’ commitment to strengthening their relationship and actively promoting deeper cooperation in advancing personal data protection practices.
The MOU focuses on providing mutual assistance and cooperation for joint investigations while promoting secure and trusted cross-border data flows, which are essential for the growth of the digital economy. The PIPC and the NPC may identify areas of initiatives to develop compatible mechanisms to facilitate trusted cross-border data flows. Further, the PIPC and NPC will collaborate on knowledge sharing, training initiatives and educational campaigns on current and emerging privacy issues, and the trends of their respective jurisdiction.
For more information, visit our website at https://www.pipc.go.kr/eng and https://privacy.gov.ph/.
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