NPC and Aboitiz Data Innovation Partner to Propel Privacy Enhancing Technologies in the Philippines through Regulatory Sandbox

In photo: Atty. John Henry D. Naga, Privacy Commissioner and Chairman of the National Privacy Commission (left) and Dr. David R. Hardoon, Chief Executive Officer of Aboitiz Data Innovation (right)

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - The National Privacy Commission (NPC) and Aboitiz Data Innovation (ADI) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on their collaboration for the development and adoption of Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs) in the Philippines.

PETs minimize personal data use and maximize data security amidst flow and exchange between organizations. The regulatory sandbox, powered by ADI’s secure data exchange platform Parlay, will provide a controlled environment for the NPC to test innovative privacy solutions. The insights and learnings from this collaboration will guide the NPC in developing future regulatory requirements, standards, policies, guidelines, and best practices for PETs.

“As we embrace digital transformation, there is an increased spotlight on data privacy and security. The regulatory sandbox will let us explore available technologies and uphold effective privacy solutions, providing data-backed insights to enhance existing and future regulations for the protection of both Filipino citizens and businesses,” Atty. John Henry D. Naga, Privacy Commissioner and Chairman of the National Privacy Commission.

“Through this project, we can identify potential risks and develop robust safeguards, ensuring that our digital ecosystem is both secure and resilient. This innovative collaboration underscores NPC's commitment to delivering knowledge, expertise, and cutting-edge technology to all stakeholders - for the benefit of the public," the Privacy Commissioner added.

In photo (from L to R): ADI Head of Public Sector Carlos Streegan, NPC Director IV - Legal and Enforcement Office Atty. Maria Theresita E. Patula, Privacy Commissioner and Chairman of the National Privacy Commission Atty. John Henry D. Naga, ADI Chief Executive Officer Dr. David R. Hardoon, ADI Data Protection Officer and Head of AI and Data Policy Jesica M. Aaron, and ADI Legal and Corporate Services Atty. Idesa Roxas - De Jesus.

“We acknowledge that progress and innovation may come with some degree of uncertainty and risks. In these instances, we should not take the path of progress avoidance but instead adopt governance and mitigation. Our secure data exchange platform serves as a privacy sandbox environment that will complement NPC’s current initiatives aimed at creating recommendations that meet regulatory and technical standards, promoting the adoption of PETs to enhance consumer confidence, drive innovation, and open new business opportunities,” said Dr. David R. Hardoon, ADI Chief Executive Officer.

Data flow and exchange across industries are important for innovation and efficiency. In manufacturing, external data sources on weather and other factors provide a comprehensive view of supply chain issues, allowing for early risk mitigation. In the energy sector, analyzing data from smart homes and building management systems drives operational efficiency and offers personalized offerings to customers.

“To advance digital transformation in the Philippines and beyond, PETs are essential in fostering cross-sector synergies and enabling responsible knowledge sharing on innovative solutions that banner sustainability. PETs support collaboration among private organizations, the public sector, strategic partners, and consumers, championing financial and environmental sustainability, and improving overall service quality,” concluded Dr. Hardoon. (PR)