The Department of National (DND) on Thursday said it has recently conducted its third cybersecurity exercise with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to enhance the government’s cybersecurity capabilities.

Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said this year’s cybersecurity exercises, also known as “CYBEX 2024,” highlight the DND’s goal to raise awareness and improve the cybersecurity competencies within its bureaus, “while fostering collaboration to address emerging cyber threats.”

The DND, in partnership with the Cyber Battalion, Army Signal Regiment (ASR) of the Philippine Army, simulated several scenarios such as hands-on exercise utilizing the Cyber Exercise for Excellence (Cyber eX) platform developed in-house by the Philippine Army Cyber Battalion.

Andolong said participants also engaged in advanced challenges, including Digital Forensics, Cryptography, and Artificial Intelligence—gaining practical experience in addressing sophisticated cyber threats in tandem with fostering collaboration and strategic thinking.

“This year’s exercise showcased the exceptional skills and teamwork of participants in a competitive environment,” Andolong said.

He added the winners of CYBEX 2024 were recognized for their outstanding performance in the simulation challenges.

“The DND reiterated its full support for initiatives like CYBEX, acknowledging their strategic importance in building a cyber-resilient defense force,” said Andolong.

Meanwhile, Director Christine June Cariño, MNSA, DND’s Chief of the Office for Cyber and Information System Management (OCISM), emphasized the need to institutionalize similar cybersecurity exercises to ensure readiness against evolving threats.

“Cyber threats evolve rapidly. Regular simulation exercises keep our cyber defenders up-to-date with the latest tactics, techniques, and tools used by adversaries,” Cariño said.

“Through CYBEX, we aim to foster a proactive cybersecurity culture that focuses on preparedness and resilience across the Department,” he added.

Cariño stressed that CYBEX 2024 “underscores the importance of proactive and collaborative efforts to address national security challenges in cyberspace.”

“Through initiatives like this, the DND and AFP reaffirm their commitment to enhancing the country’s cyber defense and securing critical infrastructure,” he added.