As to who is primarily responsible for cloud security can create risks for entities, amid cloud computing now driving the Philippines’ digital transformation, powering smarter banking, faster government services, and more connected businesses.
“Under the cloud’s shared responsibility model, providers secure the infrastructure while customers must protect their data, configurations, and user access. In practice, this often creates gaps—especially in a cloud-first environment where human error remains the biggest threat,” Fortinet said.
The 2025 Fortinet–Cybersecurity Insiders Report shows that confusion around shared responsibility is a top global risk. In the Philippines, rapid digitalization heightens this challenge. DICT recorded millions of malicious attempts on government systems in 2024, while national cybersecurity reports list malware, data leaks, and website compromises as common incidents. Innovation is accelerating, but security readiness is still catching up.
Bridging Human and Technical Gaps
With workloads spread across multiple cloud platforms, a single misconfiguration or weak access setting can expose an organisation. Cloud providers secure the platform, but users must manage credentials, protect stored data, and keep systems updated. Breaches persist because many assume “someone else” is responsible.
Technology alone cannot fix this. Weak passwords, excessive access privileges, and outdated systems remain major vulnerabilities. Cyber awareness must become part of everyday business culture—not just an IT concern.
Good governance is essential. Multi-factor authentication, least-privilege access, DevSecOps practices, and regular audits help reduce risks. However, the country’s shortage of cybersecurity talent and inconsistent incident reporting make coordinated defence harder. Leadership must champion security as an organisation-wide responsibility.
“As threats grow more sophisticated, cloud and application security must go beyond compliance. A secure cloud ecosystem depends on empowered people, strong governance, and shared accountability. When businesses, government agencies, and technology partners work together, the Philippines can build a cloud-powered economy that is both innovative and resilient,” Fortinet said.
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