Bomb Threat Caused Flight Disruption at Philippines Airport

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BOHOL- The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reported that a bomb joke caused a flight disruption at Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) in the Philippines on Saturday.

A passenger aboard Cebu Pacific flight 5J617 remarked a bomb upon landing at 11:20 a.m. on March 22, triggering immediate security protocols.

Photo- Hetzark Segundo RPLL; Wikimedia Commons

Cebu Flight Inspection

A flight attendant overheard the comment made by two passengers and alerted authorities. Both individuals were placed under police custody for further investigation. The CAAP Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) swiftly responded upon receiving information from tower personnel, assessing the situation to ensure passenger safety.

Following the incident, the pilot requested the immediate clearance of the aircraft cabin and baggage for a thorough security inspection. Authorities conducted a meticulous search to verify the presence of any explosive threats.

By 12:43 p.m., security officials confirmed that the aircraft was free of any danger. All passengers and crew members were declared safe, and flight operations resumed without further disruption.

The quick response from aviation authorities ensured minimal delay while prioritizing the safety of everyone on board.

Legal Penalties for False Bomb Threats

CAAP reminded the public that making bomb jokes is a criminal offence under Presidential Decree No. 1727, which strictly prohibits false bomb threats.

Violators can face imprisonment of up to five years or a fine of up to P40,000.00. The agency emphasized the importance of responsible behaviour in public spaces, especially in high-security areas like airports.

“Passengers are urged to exercise caution and responsibility in their statements to uphold the safety and security of all travellers,” CAAP stated.

Cebu Pacific A321; Photo- Stry426 Wikimedia Commons

Recent Bomb Threats in Philippine Civil Aviation

This incident adds to a series of bomb threats that have affected Philippine civil aviation in recent months.

In 2023, multiple flights across major airports faced disruptions due to false bomb threats, causing delays, heightened security protocols, and passenger distress. In October last year, anonymous threats targeted flights at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), leading to increased police presence and thorough inspections.

Authorities have been cracking down on hoax bomb threats, emphasizing the legal repercussions and the operational impact on flights. False alarms not only cause unnecessary panic but also divert security resources from actual threats, disrupting aviation operations.

The Philippine government continues to strengthen airport security, implementing advanced screening measures and public awareness campaigns to deter such incidents. Passengers are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities to ensure a safe travel environment for all.

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