MANILA — Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. met with executives of Mastercard to discuss potential partnerships in cybersecurity and other areas of mutual interest aimed at strengthening the department’s institutional capabilities.
The meeting, held ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Inclusive Growth Summit, focused on possible collaboration between the defense department and the private sector, particularly in information security and cybersecurity initiatives.
Teodoro was accompanied by DND Undersecretary for Information Systems and Cybersecurity Fabian Pedregosa during the discussions.
Representing Mastercard were Asia Pacific President Rich Wormald, Senior Vice President for Strategic Growth in Asia Pacific Rajat Maheshwari, Division President for East and Southeast Asia Donald Ong, Mastercard Philippines Country Manager Jason Crasto, and Mastercard Center for Strategic Growth Vice Chair Ambassador Jon Huntsman.
According to the DND, the engagement forms part of its continuing efforts to explore partnerships with industry leaders and identify opportunities to strengthen the department’s operational and institutional capabilities.
The discussions also highlighted the potential role of private-sector expertise in supporting the defense department’s cybersecurity initiatives.
No formal agreement or specific joint project was announced following the meeting.
