MANILA -- The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has partnered with fintech app GCash to raise awareness on data privacy among Filipinos.

A memorandum of understanding was signed by NPC and GCash on incorporating NPC educational materials into the GCash app. Officials said this will raise awareness on privacy issues since the app has millions of users.

According to an NPC survey, public’s awareness on the Data Privacy Act grew from 13% in 2017 to 25% in 2021. But officials said they need to do more to raise that even further since data privacy is very important for every Filipino.

“By integrating the privacy awareness materials into the GCash app, the National Privacy Commission is taking a bold step forward bringing data privacy education directly to millions of Filipinos right at their fingertips,” said NPC Chairman John Henry Naga.

G-Xchange Inc (GCash) President & CEO Oscar Reyes Jr, added, “The NPC has a whole set of educational materials and we will be embedding those educational materials within GCash… You'll be able to see and learn more about data privacy, make your own choices.”

Initially one can already see some information on the app’s settings and under the ‘privacy choices’ tab. There are articles about data portability, multi-factor authentication, tips on password safety and social media awareness, and many more. More articles, practical guidelines, videos, and other learning modules will be added in the future.

Naga added, “Empower users not only to understand their rights under the Data Privacy Act, but also to make informed decisions about their personal information.”

One of the key principles of the Data Privacy Act which the public should know is on transparency. Filipinos should be informed how their personal data are being collected, processed, and used. Under the law, there are also sanctions for businesses or institutions which may used the personal data for other purposes unknown to the individual.