Defense Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. said that his order limiting the use of artificial intelligence, or AI, applications in the defense sector includes popular image generator apps.

He said his order of 18 October was part of the Department of National Defense's operational security measures following the spate of cyber attacks against Philippine government agencies.

Teodoro explained that while recreational apps like photo generators may appear harmless, they pose significant security risks as they allow hackers to attack individuals and entire security organizations.

Among Philippine government agencies attacked by hackers were the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, the House of Representatives, and the Philippine Statistics Authority.

"These hackers are paralyzing the governmental system to get money. It has been happening in America," he warned in Filipino.