MANILA, Philippines — The Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) recently held the fifth iteration of its annual Selyado series, which focused on data privacy and security.

Led by data privacy and cyber security experts from the public and private sectors, the event entitled “Selyado 5.0: Fostering A Privacy-Enabled Secure System,” aimed to raise awareness and promote privacy-enabled secure ecosystems for Filipinos, through four different activities held from May 17 to June 7, 2023.

UnionBank Data Privacy Office head and deputy data protection officer Jesse Pauline Solis presided over the event.

In her message, Atty. Solis said, “This year’s Selyado is all about empowering ordinary Filipinos with knowledge that will help them safeguard their data and privacy, which is invaluable in a world where threat actors are becoming more innovative in their methods of causing harm in the digital space.” 

Kicking off the event on May 17 was “Selyado on Wheels: School Edition,” a symposium designed for Grade 10 students held in partnership with Pasig City Science High School.

The event showcased various experts who shared their insights and strategies on data protection.

Privacy compliance officer Danniel Amorin offered practical approaches to safeguard personal information, while DevSecOps engineer Johann Paolo Abog delved into cybersecurity fundamentals, such as recognizing phishing and scams, as well as ensuring the security of accounts and sensitive data.

In his closing remarks, UnionBank chief information security officer, Joey Rufo, underscored the significance of ensuring the safety and security of the youth in the online realm, as they represent the nation’s hope for the future.

UnionBank spearheaded several impactful events during the Selyado 5.0 campaign, aimed at raising awareness and promoting data privacy and security.

One of these events was an online roundtable discussion on May 24, where UnionBank’s Rufo, alongside Data Protection Officers from the Aboitiz Group, including Christine Kempeneers (Aboitiz Equity Ventures), Ed Monares (Pilmico Food Group), Atty. Ernie Villarin (Visayan Electric Co., Inc.), and Atty. Mischele Sta. Ana (Aboitiz Land), engaged in a conversation about data privacy and the significance of data subject rights.

On May 26, UnionBank organized a symposium called “Selyado on Wheels” in Cebu City, catering specifically to the students of the Banilad Center for Professional Development.

With the theme “Fostering a Privacy-Enabled Secure Ecosystem,” this event played a crucial role in cultivating a privacy-conscious and cyber-resilient community, with a particular focus on the youth.

Selyado 5.0 reached its pinnacle on June 7, featuring a series of expert-led discussions that delved into critical aspects of data privacy and security.

One of the notable speakers was Atty. Leandro Angelo Aguirre, deputy commissioner of the National Privacy Commission (NPC).

He highlighted the paramount importance of protecting personal data, especially for the younger generation.

Atty. Aguirre shed light on the risks associated with online quizzes and surveys designed to extract sensitive information and emphasized the crucial role of parents as the “frontline defenders.”

He urged them to remain vigilant, carefully read terms and conditions, and monitor their children’s online activities.

Atty. John Fajardo of Fajardo Law Offices, introduced “PrivaSEA”, a new perspective on privacy.

“Privacy is like the open sea. The implications are vast, and you can easily drown in it. That’s why you need to learn how to navigate through it effectively,” Fajardo stated.

Fajardo also presented information about data subject rights, discussing familiar topics such as website cookies and the importance of maintaining control over personal data.

He emphasized the need for responsible online behavior and urged attendees to approach terms and conditions with a sense of responsibility, to empower them to make informed choices.

Microsoft senior security specialist Abigail Roces shared valuable insights on the current state of internet users and highlighted the various online threats targeting children.

She cited the importance of vigilance and the need for proactive measures to protect children and their personal data, and provided practical tips and best practices to enhance data privacy and security for families, including teaching children to be cautious when encountering suspicious emails, links, or files from unknown sources.

“We need to be vigilant. There’s no room for complacency in today’s world. Criminals know that children are easy prey,” Roces said.

“The internet offers several opportunities, but it also poses several risks that we guardians and parents must address. We have to take the necessary steps to protect our children and their personal data,” she added.

SELYADO 5.0 effectively demonstrated the unwavering dedication of industry experts from the NPC, Microsoft, and UnionBank in cultivating a secure ecosystem that prioritizes privacy.

This objective seamlessly aligns with UnionBank’s “Tech-Up Pilipinas” advocacy, which strives to enhance digital literacy among Filipinos and empower them in the digital age.