COL. FRANCEL MARGARETH PADILLA

COL FRANCEL MARGARETH A. PADILLA
Cybersecurity Woman Leader

Colonel Francel Margareth A. Padilla, a distinguished alumna of the Philippine Military Academy “Sanghaya” Class of 2000, is a commissioned officer of the Philippine Army Signal Corps with a career spanning three decades. She has served in key technology-driven positions encompassing cybersecurity, research, operations, communications, administration, and leadership.

Her notable assignments include service with the Presidential Security Group, where she was involved in VVIP protection, and critical roles during the COVID-19 pandemic as Information Systems Officer and Head Executive Assistant to the Chief Implementer of the National Action Plan Against COVID-19. She also commanded the 7th Signal Battalion in Northern Luzon, leading the modernization of Command, Control, Communications, and Cyber (C4) capabilities.

A recognized cybersecurity advocate and international lecturer, Colonel Padilla is a TEDx Speaker who promotes the “Cyber for Peace Initiative.” In 2023, she was named Global Cybersecurity Woman Leader of the Year, selected from nominees across 62 countries. She was also recognized among the Top 30 Women in Security in ASEAN (2021) and Top 10 Women in Cybersecurity in the Philippines (2020).

As the first female Spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, she continues to champion cybersecurity, responsible AI, Women, Peace and Security, and gender and development. A Certified Ethical Hacker and Certified Secure Computer User, she exemplifies innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership.

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