PCIOA pushes for stronger AI data guardrails for Intelligent Enterprise Age

• IN PHOTO: Representatives from various organizations gathered at the cybersecurity forum co-hosted by the PCIOA, Gefura, and data security leader Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS).

By TechWatch PH Staff

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the digital landscape, the Philippine Chief Information Officers Association (PCIOA) is calling on organizations to adopt stronger data governance and protection measures to safeguard against the unintended risks of AI deployment.

During a recent cybersecurity forum co-hosted by PCIOA, Gefura, and data security leader Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS), industry leaders emphasized the importance of implementing AI data guardrails — systems and policies that prevent sensitive information from being exposed when integrated into AI engines.

“This forum is a vital space for the enterprise community to align on one clear message: securing data is non-negotiable in the age of AI,” said Mel Migriño, Founder and President of PCIOA. “As more businesses integrate artificial intelligence into their operations, we must ensure that data governance, access control, and cybersecurity are embedded at every layer. Innovation without protection is a risk we cannot afford.”

Migriño stressed that the success of digital transformation depends on how well organizations manage and protect their information. She emphasized the need for a cybersecurity mindset that spans not just the information technology (IT) department, but every decision-maker involved in enterprise technology.

Among the key priorities discussed during the forum was the importance of enhanced data discovery, classification, and governance. Organizations must accurately identify sensitive information, understand who has access to it, and enforce policies that protect data throughout its lifecycle.

The discussion also tackled the growing need for software as a service (SaaS) and data security posture management.

With more businesses shifting to cloud-based platforms, identifying and addressing misconfigurations and compliance gaps before they become vulnerabilities is now essential.

Participants also highlighted the importance of having managed data detection and response systems. Enterprises must invest in continuous threat monitoring and real-time incident response to counter both internal and external data breach risks.

Cybersecurity firm Varonis showcased how its Data Security Platform empowers organizations to automatically discover, classify, and secure all critical data across SaaS, in infrastructure as service (IaaS), and hybrid cloud environments — with zero reliance on sampling.

Gefura, a leading local solutions provider, was also recognized for delivering secure, tailor-fit IT and communications systems that improve infrastructure quality and business profitability through practical, economically sound approaches.

For PCIOA, the forum reflects a deeper commitment to uniting the country’s digital leaders in strengthening enterprise cybersecurity readiness. “We’re not just talking about best practices,” Migriño added. “We’re shaping the national playbook for secure, intelligent enterprise in the Philippines.”

The initiative is part of PCIOA’s broader advocacy to promote a cybersecurity-first culture across Philippine enterprises, ensuring that innovation never comes at the cost of security.