President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order No. 119, updating the Philippines’ old 1964 data rules to strengthen security and attract digital investments. The new framework sets risk‑based categories for government data, aligning with global standards while supporting cloud and AI growth.
Under EO 119, top secret and secret data must remain in the Philippines. Confidential data can be stored abroad with safeguards, while restricted and open data may use secure cloud platforms. This avoids blanket data localization and gives agencies flexibility while keeping sensitive information safe.
The order also establishes a Joint Oversight Committee led by the DICT and NSC. The committee will release detailed guidelines within 120 days. Agencies have three years to fully shift to the new system.
The DICT said the framework balances protection with openness to innovation. The policy aims to give investors certainty, strengthen governance, and position the Philippines as a trusted hub for digital infrastructure.
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With EO 119 now signed, the next step is the rollout of agency guidelines and phased implementation. The government expects the new rules to boost investor confidence and support long‑term digital growth.
