President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the newly appointed head of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to prioritize the administration’s digitalization program, including nationwide internet connectivity and cybersecurity.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said that Marcos gave these “marching orders” to newly-minted DICT Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda.

“The President’s directive to the newly appointed DICT Secretary is that first and foremost, the administration’s program regarding digitalization, including internet connectivity across the country and, of course, cybersecurity,” Castro said during a briefing.

She stressed that cybersecurity is a key focus for the agency, particularly during the ongoing campaign and upcoming midterm elections in May.

The DICT previously warned of increased cyberattacks targeting political figures and candidates during the election period.

Castro also stated that the administration’s efforts to combat fake news involve multiple agencies, not just the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

“We will all help each other to stop this fake news,” said Castro.

Meantime, PCO Secretary Jay Ruiz — on his first day in office — pledged to combat misinformation and pursue those spreading fake news and also suggested the creation of a regulatory body for social media to address the proliferation of false information.