Internet advocacy group Scam Watch Pilipinas on Wednesday appealed to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to immediately appoint a new head for the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), citing the importance of leadership continuity in cybercrime response efforts.
Scam Watch co-founder Jocel de Guzman said the CICC has been without an executive director since April, following the courtesy resignation of Alexander Ramos. He warned that the prolonged vacancy could disrupt critical services, particularly those supporting scam victims.
“To ensure uninterrupted assistance to the public, especially victims of online scams, we believe it is crucial that a new CICC executive director be named as soon as possible,” De Guzman said in a statement.
The leadership reshuffle came after Secretary Henry Aguda assumed office in April, replacing former DICT chief Ivan John Uy. As part of the transition, several DICT officials, including Ramos, tendered their courtesy resignations.
Despite the leadership gap, De Guzman reaffirmed Scam Watch’s commitment to supporting the CICC’s ongoing initiatives. He underscored the importance of maintaining the operations of the national anti-scam hotline 1326, which serves as a key support channel for victims of phishing, investment fraud, and other online threats.
“We are hopeful that Secretary Aguda will build on the programs started by Director Ramos and ensure the anti-scam hotline continues to operate 24/7,” he added.
De Guzman also praised Ramos for his contributions to cybersecurity and public awareness, noting that his work under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. helped elevate the Philippines’ profile in global anti-fraud efforts.
“We thank Usec. Ramos for his leadership and dedication, and we trust that his legacy will guide future actions in the fight against cybercrime,” he said.