Viettel Cyber Security (VCS) secured another major win on the regional stage, taking first place at the Capture The Flag (CTF) tournament during ROOTCON 19. This marks the second consecutive year that the Vietnamese team has claimed the top prize at the Philippines’ largest and longest-running hacking conference.
ROOTCON’s annual CTF has become one of Southeast Asia’s most competitive cybersecurity contests, drawing elite teams from across the region. This year’s challenges were designed to push participants beyond routine technical skills — demanding unconventional problem-solving, advanced vulnerability exploitation, and strong coordination under pressure.
The young VCS team, known for its research contributions and international competition track record, delivered a decisive performance. “Winning at ROOTCON again is a proud moment for Vietnam’s next generation of cyber defenders,” a VCS representative said. “It’s always an honor to compete in the Philippines, where the security community is vibrant and collaborative.”
ROOTCON as a Regional Hub
Beyond the CTF, ROOTCON 19 featured technical sessions, community meetups, and exhibits that highlighted the latest in cyber defense. VCS Threat Intelligence specialist Doan Minh Long presented a talk titled “The Return of Lotus Blossom: Hiding in Plain Sight”, shedding light on persistent espionage groups in Asia. Meanwhile, the conference floor showcased cutting-edge tools and live demonstrations from both local and international players.
For Filipino professionals, ROOTCON has become a platform to engage with global experts and sharpen skills against world-class benchmarks. Its mix of competition, knowledge-sharing, and community networking reinforces the Philippines’ role as a hub for cybersecurity talent in the region.
Strengthening the Regional Frontline
The back-to-back win for VCS underscores how Southeast Asia continues to cultivate top-tier cybersecurity expertise. With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, the need for collaboration and shared intelligence across borders has never been greater.
ROOTCON 19 closed on a high note, with participants reaffirming that the region’s collective defense depends not only on advanced tools, but also on the passion and ingenuity of its people.
