THE Philippine National Police (PNP) urged all government agencies to conduct a comprehensive check of their digital defenses following a cyberattack that defaced the website of the House of Representatives.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said the incident highlights the need for stronger cyber defenses and closer coordination among agencies tasked with protecting government digital infrastructure.
“This incident serves as a reminder that cybersecurity must remain a top priority for all government agencies. We encourage institutions to regularly review their security protocols, update their systems, and strengthen monitoring mechanisms against evolving cyber threats,” Nartatez said in a statement on Sunday.
The House of Representatives’ website was defaced on Saturday, days after a similar cyberattack targeted the Senate website.
A group of hackers claimed responsibility, saying the attack was a protest against alleged government corruption.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said no sensitive government information was compromised in the House website defacement.
However, the DICT said the findings could still change after further investigation.
Nartatez said the PNP’s Anti-Cybercrime Group has been instructed to work closely with the House’s information technology and cybersecurity personnel as part of the ongoing investigation.
He added that criminal charges will be pursued against individuals found responsible under applicable cybercrime laws.
“I have directed the ACG to immediately coordinate with the House of Representatives and other relevant agencies to determine the source, method, and extent of the website defacement. We will pursue a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable,” Nartatez said.
