Aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, a comprehensive Data Privacy Awareness Training was held on 18 October 2025 at Holy Spirit Academy in Bangued, Abra, for principals and registrars of the Diocesan Schools of Abra. The training aimed to promote responsible data stewardship and institutional accountability in the digital era.
Conducted by Cecilia Mercado, PhD, the Data Protection Officer of SLU, the training equipped the participants with practical knowledge and compliance strategies under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10173). It emphasized transparency, legitimate purpose, and proportionality as guiding principles in handling student, personnel, and institutional data.
Recent data revealed a growing number of privacy breaches in educational institutions, prompting a stronger call for awareness and proactive measures. The session underscored that privacy breaches, whether caused by negligence or intentional misuse can erode public confidence and expose schools to administrative and reputational risks. It was highlighted that the protection of personal information is not only a legal mandate but also a moral responsibility.
The activity concluded with key reflections and participant commitment to upholding ethical data management practices and fostering a privacy-conscious culture in their respective schools.
The Data Privacy Awareness Training, which is part of the SLU Information Systems and Technology Services Department (ISTSD) and the Data Protection Office (DPO) SDG initiatives, was conducted under the STEALTH (Systems and Technologies for Ethical Accountability, Leadership, Transparency, and Harmony) program. This event supports the institution’s broader advocacy for good governance and ethical leadership, aligning with SDG #16’s objective to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable institutions. (Article and Photos by ISTSD)
