Globe Telecom has expressed support for Executive Order (EO) 119, describing the measure as a major step toward strengthening the country's data security, digital sovereignty and cybersecurity framework as the Philippines accelerates its digital transformation.

Issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on 13 July, EO 119 establishes an updated government data classification system and requires highly sensitive government information to remain within Philippine jurisdiction. The order also sets clear safeguards for the use of cloud technologies across other classifications of government data.

Globe said the executive order provides government agencies with a risk-based framework that enables them to modernize their digital infrastructure while ensuring that critical national data remains protected.

"Executive Order No. 119 is a significant milestone in the country's digital transformation journey. It provides a clear, risk-based framework that protects our most sensitive government information while allowing agencies to continue harnessing modern digital technologies responsibly," Globe General Counsel Atty. Vicente Froilan Castelo said.

The telecommunications company said the issuance comes as governments worldwide expand digital public services and adopt cloud computing and artificial intelligence, making the protection of sensitive public sector information increasingly important amid growing cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure and essential services.

Globe president and chief executive officer Carl Cruz said the executive order reinforces public trust, which he described as essential to successful digital transformation.

"Digital transformation succeeds only when people trust that government systems are secure," Cruz said. "The executive order strengthens that trust, ensuring sensitive government information receives the highest level of protection while allowing agencies to modernize responsibly. This is an important pillar on the road to becoming a digital nation."

According to Globe, EO 119 establishes clear data classifications, residency requirements and security controls that will enable government agencies and their private sector partners to adopt cloud technologies securely while safeguarding information vital to national security and the delivery of public services.

The company also noted that the Philippines joins countries such as Australia, Singapore, India and members of the European Union in adopting governance frameworks that balance technological innovation with robust data protection. Globe said these policies have helped governments modernize public services while enhancing cybersecurity, resilience and public confidence.