Defense chief says DND should be consulted regarding NBN project for security implications

By Ronron
September 21, 2007

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., for the first time, spoke on Thursday night about his views on the controversial National Broadband Network (NBN) project of the government.

During the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) night at the Intercontinental Hotel in Makati City, Teodoro said if ever any contract is entered into by the government for the pushing of the NBN, the Defense department should be consulted for the security considerations in having such project.

The Secretary’s view about the issue was sought in the light that the company that supposedly got the government’s nod to do the project is a Chinese corporation, the ZTE Corporation.

Despite having good diplomatic relations between China, the Philippines also has some disputed issues with it like the territorial claims at the South China Sea.

“At this point in time, because the operation of the broadband network has not been submitted to the Armed Forces yet or the DND, we believe that it should be included in the implementation, if ever, of a contract of some security precautions and firewalls,” Teodoro suggested.

“We would assume that and we will review it when it comes to us – firewall security or software, whatever. Naturally, this is an issue which must be brought not merely to the department but to the National Security Council at the proper time,” he added.

The Senate is currently investigating the controversial deal of the government with ZTE Corporation following claims of Jose de Venecia III, son of House Speaker Jose de Venecia, that the project is overpriced to include bribe amount for Philippine government officials./DMS