iACADEMY

The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has called on educators across the country to include cybercrime prevention and artificial intelligence (AI) topics in their curricula. The move aims to protect students from digital threats while equipping them with the knowledge to navigate an increasingly Al-driven world.

The CICC, an attached agency of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), has consistently warned of the growing sophistication of cybercrimes, particularly targeting young people. In its advisory, the agency stressed the role of education in raising awareness and fostering safe online behavior.

Answering this call, iACADEMY, a leading academic institution specializing in Computing, Business, and Design, has reinforced its commitment to integrate Al literacy and cybersecurity into its academic programs. The institution has long positioned itself at the forefront of digital education, training students not only in technical competencies but also in responsible digital citizenship.

"Cybersecurity and Al are no longer optional topics. They are essential knowledge areas that determine how safe and prepared our students will be in the digital economy." said Jason Viernes, Officer-in-Charge of iACADEMY's School of Computing. "At iACADEMY, we continuously update our curriculum to reflect emerging risks and technologies. This ensures that our students are not only industry-ready but also equipped to protect themselves and their communities in cyberspace."

Viernes emphasized that iACADEMY's project-based pedagogy provides students with real-world exposure to threats and solutions. Courses under the School of Computing cover areas such as software engineering, data security, and ethical use of Al. These are aligned with the CICC's call for more proactive measures in schools.

Industry experts note that the Philippines has one of the fastest-growing digital populations in Southeast Asia, making the country a potential hotspot for cybercrime. Reports from the DICT highlight that phishing, online fraud, and data breaches remain among the most common cyber threats faced by Filipinos. By embedding cyber awareness and Al literacy in education, schools play a vital role in addressing these vulnerabilities.

The CICC has underscored that collaboration between government and the academe will be critical in reducing risks and fostering a safer digital ecosystem. With institutions like iACADEMY leading the way, the initiative sets a precedent for integrating national digital safety priorities into mainstream education.

Learn more about iACADEMY here: www.iacademy.edu.ph