BPAP welcomes signing of Cybercrime Prevention Act into law

Anti-cybercrime law to promote IT-BPO growth, investor confidence

The Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP), the umbrella association for the information technology and business process outsourcing (IT-BPO) and GIC (Global In-House Center) industry in the Philippines, applauded the signing of the anti-cybercrime bill into law by Malacañang, saying it adds another layer of protection for the industry against theft and fraud and will contribute to a sustainable, healthy business environment and reassure global clients.

Republic Act No. 10175, known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, was signed into law by President Benigno S. Aquino III on September 12. Its signing closely followed approval of the Data Privacy Act, a law that requires the protection and preservation of personal data collected by public agencies and private organizations.

“These recent developments significantly enhance our operating environment and contribute to the overall potential of the Philippine IT-BPO industry going forward,” said Benedict Hernandez, BPAP president and CEO. “The Cybercrime Prevention Act will help sustain and enhance investor confidence and strengthen our position as one of the world’s top locations for high-value IT-BPO services.” Hernandez said the industry expects to post 20% growth overall for the year to more than $13 billion in revenue.

The Cybercrime Prevention Act is meant to provide the resources and legal framework to identify, prevent, and impose punishment for Internet-based crimes and safeguard users’ online information from unauthorized data collectors. Because IT-BPO firms utilize the Internet and computer technology as the principal channel for communication processes, the industry will benefit from provisions covering system and data protection, device security, and penalties for computer-related offenses, according to Hernandez.

“The anti-cybercrime law will aid the industry in sustaining growth and global leadership,” said Hernandez. “This new law validates the strong partnership we continue to build with the public sector, as well as the government’s recognition of the industry’s significant contribution to our economy and employment.”

To assure enforcement and coordination of the new law, RA 10175 mandates the creation of an inter-agency body to be known as the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) under the administrative supervision of the Office of the President. Chair of the Congressional Commission of Science and Technology and Engineering (COMSTE) Sen. Edgardo Angara authored and sponsored the measure.

In 2011, the IT-BPO industry generated $11 billion in revenues and employed approximately 640,000 people. According to an industry roadmap, the industry is projected to become a $25-billion industry by 2016 and to provide high-paying jobs to 1.3 million Filipinos.

About the Business Processing Association of the Philippines
The Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP) is the umbrella association for the IT-BPO and GIC (Global In-House Center) industry in the Philippines. BPAP serves as the one-stop information and advocacy gateway for the industry. With approximately 300 industry and support-industry members, including five associations, BPAP plays a pivotal role in sustaining rapid growth of the IT-BPO and GIC industry by working to ensure an enduring supply of high quality labor, supporting service innovation, and providing country visibility.

BPAP assists investors in setting up operations easily and quickly in the Philippines. Relevant research, introductions to key government and industry officials, and a series of briefings at each step of the investment process ensure a seamless development process. Ongoing support is provided through a wide variety of initiatives, including programs for HR development, business development, and ongoing knowledge sharing and networking opportunities.