Department of Information and Communication Technology Act of

2015 (RA 10844)

RA 10844 refers to the Republic Act No. 10844, also known as the "Department of Information and
Communications Technology (DICT) Act of 2015." It is a Philippine law enacted on May 23, 2016, with the
aim of developing and promoting the country's information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
The DICT Act of 2015 recognizes the importance of ICT in the social and economic development of the
Philippines. It establishes the Department of Information and Communications Technology as the primary
policy, planning, coordinating, implementing, and administrative body of the executive branch concerning
ICT-related matters.

The main objectives of RA 10844 are as follows:

• ICT Development: The law seeks to accelerate the development of ICT infrastructure, including
broadband internet connectivity, and enhance the country's competitiveness in the digital economy.

• E-Government Services: The law promotes the efficient and transparent delivery of government
services through the use of ICT. It aims to improve the accessibility and convenience of public services
and streamline government processes.

• Cybersecurity: RA 10844 emphasizes the importance of ensuring the security of ICT systems and
networks. It calls for the establishment of measures to protect against cyber threats and enhance
cybersecurity capabilities.

• Digital Inclusion: The law aims to bridge the digital divide by promoting equal access to ICT
resources and opportunities, particularly in underserved areas and marginalized sectors of society.

• ICT Industry Development: RA 10844 supports the growth and competitiveness of the local ICT
industry. It encourages investments in ICT infrastructure, research and development, and human capital
development.

To fulfill its objectives, the DICT has various powers and functions outlined in the law. These include
formulating and implementing national ICT policies, promoting ICT literacy and digital skills training,
coordinating with relevant agencies and stakeholders, and ensuring the effective implementation of
egovernment initiatives.

Overall, RA 10844 serves as a comprehensive framework for the development of the ICT sector in the
Philippines. It aims to harness the power of technology to drive economic growth, improve public services,
and foster digital inclusion throughout the country.
Cyber Prevention Act of 2012 (RA 10175)

RA 10175, also known as the "Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012," is a Philippine law enacted on September
12, 2012. It aims to address issues related to cybercrime, including offenses committed through the use of the
internet and computer systems.
The Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 recognizes the importance of protecting individuals, organizations,
and the state from cyber threats and illegal activities online. It seeks to provide a legal framework to prevent
and combat cybercrime, as well as promote cybersecurity in the Philippines.

Here are some key points about the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012:

• Scope and Definitions: The law covers a wide range of cyber-related offenses, such as hacking,
identity theft, cybersex, fraud, and illegal access to computer systems and data. It also defines terms
related to cybercrime to ensure clarity and consistency in its application.
• Cybersecurity Measures: The law requires the establishment of specialized cybercrime units within
law enforcement agencies to handle cybercrime investigations and prosecution. It also mandates the
development of capabilities and resources to prevent and respond to cyber threats.
• Cybercrime Offenses: RA 10175 identifies various cybercrime offenses and their corresponding
penalties. These include offenses against the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of computer data
and systems, as well as offenses related to computer-related fraud, child pornography, and cybersex.
• Jurisdiction and International Cooperation: The law establishes jurisdiction over cybercrime
offenses committed within the Philippines, regardless of the location of the offender. It also emphasizes
the importance of international cooperation in addressing transnational cybercrime and promotes
collaboration with other countries.
• Rights and Freedom of Expression: The Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 recognizes the
importance of protecting freedom of speech and expression online. However, it also emphasizes that
these rights should be exercised responsibly and without violating the law or the rights of others.

Since its enactment, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 has undergone some amendments to address
concerns regarding potential abuses and protect individuals' rights. These amendments have focused on
refining the law's provisions, particularly those related to libel and cybersex offenses, to strike a balance
between cybercrime prevention and safeguarding civil liberties.

Overall, RA 10175 serves as a legal framework to combat cybercrime and promote cybersecurity in the
Philippines. It aims to protect individuals, organizations, and the state from the threats posed by illegal
activities conducted through computer systems and the internet.
Emerging Technologies and Ethical Issues

Emerging technologies are rapidly transforming the world we live in, offering new possibilities for innovation,
progress, and convenience. From artificial intelligence and biotechnology to robotics and virtual reality, these
technologies hold great promise for solving some of the world's most pressing problems, improving our quality
of life, and creating new economic opportunities. However, as with any new technology, emerging
technologies also raise important ethical questions and challenges.

One of the key ethical issues associated with emerging technologies is the potential impact on human rights,
privacy, and security. For example, as companies and governments collect massive amounts of data about
individuals and their behaviors, there is a growing concern about the appropriate use and protection of that
data. Many emerging technologies, such as AI and biotechnology, have the potential to significantly impact
individuals' privacy and security, either through the use of personal data or through the manipulation of
biological processes.

Another key ethical issue associated with emerging technologies is the potential impact on employment and
the workforce. As automation and artificial intelligence continue to advance, many jobs that were previously
done by humans may be replaced by machines. This raises important questions about the responsibility of
businesses and governments to ensure that individuals are able to find meaningful employment and maintain
their livelihoods in the face of technological disruption.

Additionally, emerging technologies can exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities, such as access
to healthcare, education, and information. As new technologies emerge and existing technologies become
obsolete, there is a risk that some individuals or groups may be left behind or unable to access the benefits of
these new developments. This highlights the need for ethical considerations in the development and
deployment of emerging technologies, as well as the importance of ensuring equitable access to those
technologies.

Finally, emerging technologies raise important ethical questions around the responsibility and accountability
of individuals, businesses, and governments for the impact of their actions on society and the environment.
For example, as new technologies are developed and deployed, there is a risk of unintended consequences,
such as environmental damage or social disruption. It is important to consider the potential impact of emerging
technologies on society as a whole, and to ensure that ethical considerations are integrated into the
development and deployment of these technologies.
Software Engineering Code of Ethics

The Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice (SE Code) is a set of guidelines and
principles that govern the professional conduct of software engineers. It provides a framework for ethical
decision-making and promotes responsible and ethical behavior within the field of software engineering.
The SE Code was first introduced by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society in 1999. It has since been revised and updated
to address the evolving challenges and ethical considerations in the software engineering profession.

The SE Code consists of eight fundamental principles that software engineers should uphold:

• Public: Software engineers should act in the best interests of the public. They have a responsibility to
ensure the safety, welfare, and privacy of individuals who use or are affected by the software systems
they develop.
• Client and Employer: Software engineers should be loyal to their clients and employers, and they
should work diligently to fulfill their professional obligations. They should be transparent about any
conflicts of interest that may arise.
• Product: Software engineers should strive to develop high-quality software systems that meet the
needs and requirements of their clients and users. They should adhere to professional standards and
practices to ensure the reliability, efficiency, and usability of the software.
• Judgment: Software engineers should exercise their professional judgment and expertise to make
informed decisions. They should consider the potential impact of their work on society and take steps
to minimize any negative consequences.
• Management: Software engineers should promote fair and equitable management practices. They
should be honest and accurate in their communication with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders and
should respect intellectual property rights.
• Profession: Software engineers should enhance their professional skills and knowledge through
continuous learning and development. They should contribute to the advancement of the software
engineering field and support the professional growth of their colleagues.
• Colleagues: Software engineers should treat their colleagues with respect, fairness, and dignity. They
should foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment and promote the sharing of knowledge
and expertise among peers.
• Self: Software engineers should maintain their integrity and ethical conduct. They should strive for
personal excellence in their work and make a commitment to ethical behavior and professional
responsibility.

The SE Code serves as a guide for software engineers to navigate complex ethical dilemmas they may
encounter throughout their careers. By adhering to these principles, software engineers can ensure that their
work is carried out with professionalism, integrity, and consideration for the well-being of society and
individuals affected by their software systems.
SHORT VERSION: PREAMBLE
The short version of the code summarizes aspirations at a high level of abstraction. The clauses that are
included in the full version give examples and details of how these aspirations change the way we act as
software engineering professionals. Without the aspirations, the details can become legalistic and tedious;
without the details, the aspirations can become high-sounding but empty; together, the aspirations and the
details form a cohesive code.
Software engineers shall commit themselves to making the analysis, specification, design,
development, testing, and maintenance of software a beneficial and respected profession. In accordance with
their commitment to the health, safety, and welfare of the public, software engineers shall adhere to the
following eight Principles:
1. Public. Software engineers shall act consistently with the public interest.

2. Client and employer. Software engineers shall act in a manner that is in the best interests of their
client and employer, consistent with the public interest.

3. Product. Software engineers shall ensure that their products and related modifications meet the highest
professional standards possible.

4. Judgment. Software engineers shall maintain integrity and independence in their professional
judgment.

5. Management. Software engineering managers and leaders shall subscribe to and promote an ethical
approach to the management of software development and maintenance.

6. Profession. Software engineers shall advance the integrity and reputation of the profession consistent
with the public interest.

7. Colleagues. Software engineers shall be fair to and supportive of their colleagues.

8. Self. Software engineers shall participate in lifelong learning regarding the practice of their profession
and shall promote an ethical approach to the practice of the profession.

PRINCIPLES
Principle 1: Public Software engineers shall act consistently with the public interest. In particular, software
engineers shall, as appropriate:
1.01. Accept full responsibility for their own work.
1.02. Moderate the interests of the software engineer, the employer, the client, and the users with the public
good.
1.03. Approve software only if they have a well-founded belief that it is safe, meets
specifications, passes appropriate tests, and does not diminish quality of life,
diminish privacy, or harm the environment. The ultimate effect of the work
should be to the public good.
1.04. Disclose to appropriate persons or authorities any actual or potential danger to
the user, the public, or the environment, that they reasonably believe to be
associated with software or related documents.
1.05. Cooperate in efforts to address matters of grave public concern caused by
software, its installation, maintenance, support, or documentation.
1.06. Be fair and avoid deception in all statements, particularly public ones,
concerning software or related documents, methods, and tools.
1.07. Consider issues of physical disabilities, allocation of resources, economic
disadvantage, and other factors that can diminish access to the benefits of
software.
1.08. Be encouraged to volunteer professional skills to good causes and to
contribute to public education concerning the discipline.

Principle 2: Client and employer

Software engineers shall act in a manner that is in the best interests of their client and
employer, consistent with the public interest. In particular, software engineers shall, as
appropriate:
2.01. Provide service in their areas of competence, being honest and forthright about
any limitations of their experience and education.
2.02. Not knowingly use software that is obtained or retained either illegally or
unethically.
2.03. Use the property of a client or employer only in ways properly authorized, and
with the client’s or employer’s knowledge and consent.
2.04. Ensure that any document upon which they rely has been approved, when
required, by someone authorized to approve it.
2.05. Keep private any confidential information gained in their professional work,
where such confidentiality is consistent with the public interest and consistent
with the law.
2.06. Identify, document, collect evidence, and report to the client or the employer
promptly if, in their opinion, a project is likely to fail, to prove too expensive,
to violate intellectual property law, or otherwise to be problematic.
2.07. Identify, document, and report significant issues of social concern, of which
they are aware, in software or related documents, to the employer or the client.
2.08. Accept no outside work detrimental to the work they perform for their primary
employer.
2.09. Promote no interest adverse to their employer or client, unless a higher ethical
concern is being compromised; in that case, inform the employer or another
appropriate authority of the ethical concern.

Principle 3: Product
Software engineers shall ensure that their products and related modifications meet the
highest professional standards possible. In particular, software engineers shall, as
appropriate:
3.01. Strive for high quality, acceptable cost, and a reasonable schedule, ensuring
significant tradeoffs are clear to and accepted by the employer and the client,
and are available for consideration by the user and the public.
3.02. Ensure proper and achievable goals and objectives for any project on which
they work or propose.
3.03. Identify, define, and address ethical, economic, cultural, legal, and
environmental issues related to work projects.
3.04. Ensure that they are qualified for any project on which they work or propose to
work, by an appropriate combination of education, training, and experience.
3.05. Ensure that an appropriate method is used for any project on which they work
or propose to work.
3.06. Work to follow professional standards, when available, that are most
appropriate for the task at hand, departing from these only when ethically or
technically justified.
3.07. Strive to fully understand the specifications for software on which they work.
3.08. Ensure that specifications for software on which they work have been well
documented, satisfy the user’s requirements, and have the appropriate
approvals.
3.09. Ensure realistic quantitative estimates of cost, scheduling, personnel, quality,
and outcomes on any project on which they work or propose to work and
provide an uncertainty assessment of these estimates.
3.10. Ensure adequate testing, debugging, and review of software and related
documents on which they work.
3.11. Ensure adequate documentation, including significant problems discovered
and solutions adopted, for any project on which they work.
3.12. Work to develop software and related documents that respect the privacy of
those who will be affected by that software.
3.13. Be careful to use only accurate data derived by ethical and lawful means, and
use it only in ways properly authorized.
3.14. Maintain the integrity of data, being sensitive to outdated or flawed
occurrences.
3.15 Treat all forms of software maintenance with the same professionalism as new
development.

Principle 4: Judgment
Software engineers shall maintain integrity and independence in their professional
judgment. In particular, software engineers shall, as appropriate:
4.01. Temper all technical judgments by the need to support and maintain human
values.
4.02 Only endorse documents either prepared under their supervision or within there
areas of competence and with which they are in agreement.
4.02. Maintain professional objectivity with respect to any software or related
documents they are asked to evaluate.
4.03. Not engage in deceptive financial practices such as bribery, double billing, or
other improper financial practices.
4.04. Disclose to all concerned parties those conflicts of interest that cannot
reasonably be avoided or escaped.
4.05. Refuse to participate, as members or advisors, in a private, governmental, or
professional body concerned with software-related issues in which they, their
employers, or their clients have undisclosed potential conflicts of interest.

Principle 5: Management
Software engineering managers and leaders shall subscribe to and promote an ethical
approach to the management of software development and maintenance. In particular,
those managing or leading software engineers shall, as appropriate:
5.01 Ensure good management for any project on which they work, including
effective procedures for promotion of quality and reduction of risk.
5.02. Ensure that software engineers are informed of standards before being held to
them.
5.03. Ensure that software engineers know the employer’s policies and procedures
for protecting passwords, files, and information that is confidential to the
employer or confidential to others.
5.04. Assign work only after taking into account appropriate contributions of
education and experience tempered with a desire to further that education and
experience.
5.05. Ensure realistic quantitative estimates of cost, scheduling, personnel, quality,
and outcomes on any project on which they work or propose to work, and
provide an uncertainty assessment of these estimates.
5.06. Attract potential software engineers only by full and accurate description of
the conditions of employment.
5.07. Offer fair and just remuneration.
5.08. Not unjustly prevent someone from taking a position for which that person is
suitably qualified.
5.09. Ensure that there is a fair agreement concerning ownership of any software,
processes, research, writing, or other intellectual property to which a software
engineer has contributed.
5.10. Provide for due process in hearing charges of violation of an employer’s
policy or of this Code.
5.11. Not ask a software engineer to do anything inconsistent with this Code.
5.12. Not punish anyone for expressing ethical concerns about a project.
Principle 6: Profession
Software engineers shall advance the integrity and reputation of the profession
consistent with the public interest. In particular, software engineers shall, as
appropriate:
6.01. Help develop an organizational environment favorable to acting ethically.
6.02. Promote public knowledge of software engineering.
6.03. Extend software engineering knowledge by appropriate participation in
professional organizations, meetings, and publications.
6.04. Support, as members of a profession, other software engineers striving to
follow this Code.
6.05. Not promote their own interest at the expense of the profession, client, or
employer.
6.06. Obey all laws governing their work, unless, in exceptional circumstances, such
compliance is inconsistent with the public interest.
6.07. Be accurate in stating the characteristics of software on which they work,
avoiding not only false claims but also claims that might reasonably be
supposed to be speculative, vacuous, deceptive, misleading, or doubtful.
6.08. Take responsibility for detecting, correcting, and reporting errors in software
and associated documents on which they work.
6.09. Ensure that clients, employers, and supervisors know of the software
engineer’s commitment to this Code of Ethics, and the subsequent
ramifications of such commitment.
6.10. Avoid associations with businesses and organizations which are in conflict
with this Code.
6.11. Recognize that violations of this Code are inconsistent with being a
professional software engineer.
6.12. Express concerns to the people involved when significant violations of this
Code are detected unless this is impossible, counterproductive, or dangerous.
6.13. Report significant violations of this Code to appropriate authorities when it is
clear that consultation with people involved in these significant violations is
impossible, counterproductive, or dangerous.

Principle 7: Colleagues
Software engineers shall be fair to and supportive of their colleagues. In particular,
software engineers shall, as appropriate:
7.01. Encourage colleagues to adhere to this Code.
7.02. Assist colleagues in professional development.
7.03. Credit fully the work of others and refrain from taking undue credit.
7.04. Review the work of others in an objective, candid, and properly-documented
way.
7.05. Give a fair hearing to the opinions, concerns, or complaints of a colleague.
7.06. Assist colleagues in being fully aware of current standard work practices
including policies and procedures for protecting passwords, files, and other
confidential information, and security measures in general.
7.07. Not unfairly intervene in the career of any colleague; however, concern for the
employer, the client, or public interest may compel software engineers, in
good faith, to question the competence of a colleague.
7.08. In situations outside of their own areas of competence, call upon the opinions
of other professionals who have competence in those areas.

Principle 8: Self
Software engineers shall participate in lifelong learning regarding the practice of their
profession and shall promote an ethical approach to the practice of the profession. In
particular, software engineers shall continually endeavor to:
8.01. Further their knowledge of developments in the analysis, specification, design,
development, maintenance, and testing of software and related documents,
together with the management of the development process.
8.02. Improve their ability to create safe, reliable, and useful quality software at
reasonable cost and within a reasonable time.
8.03. Improve their ability to produce accurate, informative, and well-written
documentation.
8.04. Improve their understanding of the software and related documents on which
they work and of the environment in which they will be used.
8.05. Improve their knowledge of relevant standards and the law governing the
software and related documents on which they work.
8.06 Improve their knowledge of this Code, its interpretation, and its application to
their work.
8.07 Not give unfair treatment to anyone because of any irrelevant prejudices.
8.08. Not influence others to undertake any action that involves a breach of this
Code.
8.09. Recognize that personal violations of this Code are inconsistent with being a
professional software engineer.