A bomb joke made by a passenger at the airport has prompted authorities to remind the public that such remarks pose a serious threat to public safety and are punishable under Philippine law.
According to the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP AVSEGROUP), charges are being pursued against the suspect under Presidential Decree No. 1727, also known as the Anti-Bomb Joke Law.
“Your words carry weight — what may seem like a harmless joke can trigger panic, disrupt operations, and endanger lives,” stressed Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia, Director of the PNP AVSEGROUP.
Enacted on October 8, 1980, PD 1727 makes it unlawful to willfully make threats or disseminate false information about bombs, explosives, or similar devices.
The decree, which has the force of law, covers threats made verbally or through any form of communication, including mail, telephone, and electronic means.
Violators, upon conviction, may face up to five years of imprisonment, a fine of up to ₱40,000, or both, depending on the discretion of the court.
Under the decree, offenders may also be arrested via an Arrest, Search, and Seizure Order (ASSO) and are not entitled to bail pending trial before military tribunals, which have exclusive jurisdiction over such cases.
Based on reports, a passenger bound for Cebu was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on May 25 after allegedly claiming there was a grenade in his bag as it was being placed in the overhead compartment.
The cabin crew immediately reported the remark, prompting authorities to isolate the aircraft and conduct a thorough bomb detection procedure, which ultimately found no explosives.
The passenger was then taken into custody by NAIA Police Station 3 for further legal proceedings.
Authorities continue to urge the public to exercise caution and responsibility, particularly in sensitive and high-security environments.
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