University privacy leaders help advance data protection in Naga City

The University’s leadership in data protection and privacy governance recently took center stage when two members of its data protection office served as resource persons in a capacity-building workshop for officials of the City Government of Naga from 23 to 24 February.

Image

Representing the Ateneo de Manila University Data Protection Office (UDPO) were Atty Jam Jacob, Data Protection Officer (DPO), and Ms Shari Datu Tambuyung, Deputy DPO. The two shared insights and practical guidance to help local government officials strengthen their compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and related regulations.

The training forms part of “Privacy Starts Local (PSL): Advancing Data Protection for Good Governance and Empowered Communities,” an ongoing campaign of the civil society organization, Foundation for Media Alternatives (FMA). It is aimed at helping local government units integrate data protection and information security practices into everyday governance. It was developed and is currently being deployed with valuable contributions from UDPO and the research and advisory firm, the LIGHTS Institute.

For the University’s data protection office, the engagement also highlighted the institution’s well-established privacy program, developed over nearly a decade to ensure that personal data handled by the University is protected through sound policies and practices, as well as compliance mechanisms aligned with national regulations and global standards.

Image

During the workshop, Atty Jacob delivered an overview of the fundamentals of data privacy, including the role of a Data Protection Officer and best practices when dealing with third-parties. Ms Datu Tambuyung provided practical insights on security incident management, and coordination activities with the country’s data protection regulator, the National Privacy Commission.

Atty Jacob emphasized that data protection plays a critical role in cities known for citizen participation and transparent governance. “When citizens trust that their information will be handled responsibly, they are more willing to engage with government programs and services,” he said. “Trust builds cooperation. Cooperation strengthens governance.”

The workshop concluded with Leni Robredo, former Vice President of the Philippines and now Mayor of Naga City, in attendance. She thanked the speakers and reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to responsible, transparent, and privacy-respecting governance.