PLDT Group’s cybersecurity and data privacy efforts received recognition as Leah Besa Jimenez, Chief Data Privacy Officer, was named Cyber Woman of the Year at the PhilSec 2026 Awards, honoring her leadership in strengthening digital trust and protecting customer data.
The award recognizes Jimenez’s role in advancing privacy and cybersecurity practices across the PLDT Group, embedding data protection principles into business operations, product development, and customer engagement initiatives.
During the awarding ceremony held at the Manila Marriott Hotel, Jimenez emphasized that privacy is central to cybersecurity and that protecting personal information is ultimately about protecting people.
“Technology alone cannot protect privacy… trust is ultimately built by people,” Jimenez said, highlighting the importance of creating a culture where data protection becomes a shared responsibility rather than only a compliance requirement.
Under her leadership, PLDT Group has continued to implement privacy-by-design strategies, strengthen cybersecurity governance, enhance threat detection capabilities, and promote employee awareness to address evolving digital risks.
The recognition also highlights the growing contribution of women leaders in the cybersecurity industry. PLDT and Smart continue to invest in secure digital infrastructure and initiatives aimed at protecting customers, including children, from cyber threats and online abuse.
Jimenez said the company’s goal goes beyond regulatory compliance, focusing on building and maintaining long-term customer trust through responsible technology innovation.
