The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) is taking significant moves toward becoming a center for cybersecurity resilience. On February 7, 2025, a meeting was held at the UPOU Office of the Chancellor Conference Room to discuss the next steps in establishing a resiliency hub specializing in cybersecurity.
Dr. Joane Serrano, alongside other esteemed attendees from UPOU and the U.P. Resilience Institute (UPRI), opened the meeting by outlining the agenda, which focused on advancing the HUBS and PSCP initiatives. She shared updates on the team’s progress in exploring the creation of a Cybersecurity Resilience Hub. A draft proposal had been developed, showcasing the collective effort in addressing modern digital challenges.
Director Reinald Pugoy presented the draft proposal for the Cybersecurity, Cyber Resiliency, Digital Innovation, and Sustainability Hub. This initiative aims to bolster cybersecurity by focusing on its core pillars: cybersecurity, cyber resiliency, digital innovation, and sustainability. Director Pugoy also highlighted the unique timing challenges, particularly the increase in cyberattacks during the year’s final quarter, underscoring the need for robust resilience measures.
The meeting further discussed the operational structure of the proposed hub. Dr. Serrano and Mr. Jose Abraham Ongkiko explored whether the hub should operate under a college or function independently. While Director Pugoy suggested aligning the hub with the College of Information and Communication Technology, Dr. Carlos Primero Gundran raised considerations about potential drawbacks of housing it within a specific college. This point remains under review as the team weighs the pros and cons.
Environmental sustainability also took the spotlight during the discussion. Dr. Serrano emphasized the high energy demands of computing and AI technologies, advocating for renewable energy solutions. She suggested that UPOU’s satellite office in Clark could serve as a pilot site for these initiatives, aligning the hub’s goals with environmental responsibility.
The conversation shifted to funding and partnerships. Representatives clarified that while the proposal spans several years, funding would be requested annually. Dr. Serrano also noted the growing collaborations with UPRI, MOOC, and MCDI, signaling strong partnerships that could support the hub’s success.
As the meeting concluded, the team reaffirmed their commitment to finalizing the proposal and meeting submission requirements. The collaborative effort between UPOU and UPRI reflects a shared vision for a resilient and secure digital future.