MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken steps to reorganize the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) in response to the changing landscape of national security threats, according to a statement from Malacañang on Tuesday.
The President, through Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, signed Executive Order (EO) 54 on January 19, initiating the reorganization of NICA with the aim of strengthening the agency’s intelligence gathering and analysis capabilities.
In the order, the President emphasized the necessity of adapting NICA to the evolving threats to national security. The reorganization aims to ensure more robust intelligence collection, enhance internal and external coordination with foreign and domestic counterparts, and utilize data analytics to prepare intelligence and security assessments and estimates that safeguard national security and promote national interest.
The establishment of NICA was originally authorized by EO 246.
As part of the reorganization, EO 54 introduces the Office of the Deputy Director General (ODDG) for Cyber and Emerging Threats. This office will be responsible for providing guidance and direction in the overall planning, supervision, and coordination of NICA’s efforts in countering intelligence threats and cybersecurity threats, as well as addressing weapons of mass destruction and other emerging threats.
The ODDG for Cyber and Emerging Threats will be led by a Deputy Director General with the rank of Assistant Secretary, who will be appointed by the President. The office will consist of the Directorate for Counterintelligence and Security, as well as the Directorate for Cyberintelligence and Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction.
The EO, which was made public on Tuesday, takes immediate effect.
This reorganization demonstrates President Marcos Jr.’s commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of the Philippines in the face of evolving threats. By adapting NICA to the changing landscape of national security, the government aims to stay ahead of potential risks and protect the interests of the nation.
The establishment of the Office of the Deputy Director General for Cyber and Emerging Threats reflects the growing importance of addressing cybersecurity threats and emerging dangers. With the rise of digital technologies and interconnected systems, it is crucial to have a specialized office dedicated to countering cyber threats and ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure.
The reorganization also highlights the need for enhanced coordination and collaboration with both foreign and domestic counterparts. In an increasingly interconnected world, intelligence sharing and cooperation are vital in addressing transnational threats. By strengthening these relationships, NICA can leverage the expertise and resources of its partners to better protect the nation.
The utilization of data analytics in intelligence and security assessments is another significant aspect of the reorganization. By harnessing the power of data, NICA can gain valuable insights and make informed decisions to mitigate risks. This data-driven approach will enable the agency to proactively identify potential threats and develop effective strategies to address them.
President Marcos Jr.’s executive order marks a proactive step towards adapting to the ever-changing landscape of national security threats. By reorganizing NICA, the government aims to ensure that the agency is equipped to tackle emerging challenges and protect the interests of the Philippines. This commitment to national security is crucial in safeguarding the nation’s stability, prosperity, and well-being.
Source: The Manila Times
