As Philippine companies accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence, many are still not integrating cybersecurity into their AI strategies—a gap that could leave businesses more vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, according to Palo Alto Networks Philippines.
“Everyone is curious about AI, and adoption is happening as we speak. But when it comes to embedding cybersecurity into the AI lifecycle, I don’t think we’re there yet,” said Bernadette Nacario, country manager of Palo Alto Networks Philippines.
Nacario said most organizations already have cybersecurity programs in place, but these were largely designed before the AI era and must now evolve alongside AI-powered technologies. She stressed that cybersecurity should be embedded from the outset rather than treated as a safeguard added after deployment.
“There are two paths: security for AI and AI for security. Organizations need to address both,” she said, explaining that companies must protect AI systems from cyber threats while also using AI to improve threat detection, response and overall cyber resilience.
Her remarks underscore the growing challenge facing Philippine enterprises as AI adoption gathers pace. While the technology promises greater efficiency and productivity, weak governance and inadequate security controls could expose organizations to new operational, financial and reputational risks.
Nacario said Palo Alto Networks is working with government agencies, industry groups and the private sector to help shape cybersecurity policies and frameworks that can support the country’s digital transformation while promoting the responsible use of AI.
She also urged business leaders to elevate cybersecurity from an IT function to a boardroom priority, noting that cyber risks now have direct implications for operational resilience, financial performance, corporate reputation and customer trust.
“The conversation should no longer be limited to the CISO or CIO,” she said. “When cybersecurity impacts revenue, brand reputation and business continuity, it requires the attention of boards and C-suite executives. Organizations can no longer separate AI strategy from cybersecurity strategy if they want to innovate with confidence.”
