The rise of cybersecurity: A thriving profession in the digital age

As the Philippines enters a new era of digital transformation under the National Cybersecurity Plan 2023-2028, a new breed of professional is emerging as the backbone of the modern economy: the Cybersecurity Specialist. With 1.3 million Filipino user accounts breached in 2025 alone, as reported by virtual private network service Surfshark—a staggering 2.5 accounts every minute—the demand for experts who can defend the nation’s digital borders has reached an all-time high.

To meet this critical workforce need, Mapúa University, the country’s premier technological institution, has launched its full Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity for the 2026-2027 academic year, positioning its graduates at the forefront of one of the world’s most lucrative and future-proof career paths.

Mapúa’s Dean of School of Information Technology and Head of its Cybersecurity Program, Ariel Kelly Balan, said, “We know that data is exponentially growing. Data will become the next oil and we need to safeguard and protect it.”
Data protection has become so important that cyber threats, particularly those on government systems, are now considered national security risks. As industries like banking, telecommunications, and government services migrate to more complex and updated digital infrastructures, the need for human intelligence to secure these systems is non-negotiable.
“Based on our studies, our government infrastructures are being attacked every day in significant numbers. We need not just IT generalists but highly skilled cybersecurity professionals not only to defend our facilities but also to help the business perspective. There’s a big demand in the industry – locally and internationally – for cybersecurity experts,” added Dean Balan.

Unlike a specialist track or module, Mapúa’s BS Cybersecurity degree is an immersive, three years and one quarter deep dive into the mechanics of digital defense. Ranked #1 in the Philippines for Computer Science, Engineering, Physical Sciences, and Social Sciences by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject 2026, Mapúa offers a curriculum co-developed with global industry leaders, such as COMPTIA, the largest vendor-neutral credentialing organization for technology workers, EC Council, the premier cybersecurity technical certification body, and other partner-tool providers. Through these alliances, students are assured that their skills remain relevant well after graduation.

Cybersecurity graduates also have their pick of high-demand, high-impact careers. They can become cybersecurity engineers, designing robust security systems that defend against threats, or security analysts, the first line of defense. They can work as ethical hackers, infrastructure developers, or computer forensics analysts, among others.
Dean Balan, however, cautioned that specialists must be technically competent and value lifelong learning for continuous upward professional growth. They should also stay current, farsighted, and strategic to effectively mitigate digital threats while staying on top of their field.

Those who decide to pursue a Cybersecurity degree will find it challenging yet fulfilling. Not only will they be celebrated, sought-after “keyboard heroes,” they will have the privilege of making a deep impact on the country, industries, and people.

Be the country’s next digital hero by specializing in cybersecurity. Visit www.mapua.edu.ph and begin your journey to a world-class, future-focused education today.