The National Privacy Commission (NPC) is pleased to announce the appointment and arrival of Atty. Juan Paolo F. Fajardo as its newest Deputy Privacy Commissioner. Atty. Fajardo joins the commission at a pivotal time as the agency ramps up its efforts to integrate data privacy into the fabric of Philippine society and governance.
During his introductory remarks, Atty. Fajardo acknowledged the unique sociological hurdles facing data protection in the country. He noted that the transition to a privacy-conscious society requires navigating deep-seated cultural norms. “Privacy in the Philippines, a country that has not been culturally predisposed to the concept of privacy, is a difficult conversation,” Atty. Fajardo stated. “What you can expect from me as Deputy Privacy Commissioner is all the support that I can give. I am here to join the conversation, to share the challenges and difficulties, and to provide the support you need to move beyond these challenges.”
Atty. Fajardo’s entry reinforces the NPC’s leadership team as they address the evolving landscape of digital rights and cybersecurity. His commitment to “joining the conversation” signals a collaborative approach, focusing on bridging the gap between complex legal requirements and the daily realities of Filipino citizens and businesses.
The NPC views this new leadership as a catalyst for several key objectives:
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Expanding Public Awareness: Breaking down cultural barriers to make privacy a relatable and essential concept for every Filipino.
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Collaborative Governance: Providing robust support to government agencies and private stakeholders to ensure compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012.
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Building a Foundation of Trust: Ensuring that data privacy remains a cornerstone of public service and a driver of the country’s digital economy.
The Commission remains steadfast in its mission to protect the fundamental human right to privacy. With the addition of Atty. Fajardo, the NPC looks forward to a renewed era of proactive leadership and empathetic engagement with the public.
“We are eager to integrate Atty. Fajardo’s perspective into our strategic goals,” the Commission shared in a statement. “Together, we will continue the conversation and the mission of protecting the privacy rights of every Filipino in this digital age.”
