CA confirms appointment of DICT Secretary Aguda

• Photo grab from CA live stream

By TechWatch PH

The Commission on Appointments (CA) has confirmed on Wednesday, October 1, the appointment of Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda.

During the hearing, lawmakers tackled a range of national cybersecurity and digitalization concerns, including threats of espionage, the government’s campaign against online gambling, and the implementation of the newly enacted Konektadong Pinoy Law.

Aguda also fielded questions on key ICT initiatives such as the Free Internet for All program, the Bayanihan SIM program, the rollout of the National Fiber Backbone, and measures to strengthen the country’s digital economy.

He likewise discussed the government’s push for stronger safeguards against online scams and the expansion of e-governance platforms, including the eGov Super App, as part of building resilient digital infrastructure.

The CA, a constitutional body mandated under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, plays a vital role in the system of checks and balances by ensuring that presidential appointees are fit and qualified to serve.

While it does not limit the appointing authority of the President, it serves as a safeguard against possible abuse of this power.

The body is composed of members of Congress and, under the present committee, chaired by Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III.