The chief of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Wednesday told people contemplating making bomb jokes to think twice, warning they can be held legally liable for such actions.
NCRPO officer-in-charge Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano made the statement following recent bomb threats against the University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle University that resulted in the cancellation of classes and the deployment of emergency responders.
“There is nothing funny about a bomb threat, and those who use such threats to sow fear and disrupt classes will face the full force of the law,” Abrahano said.
“A bomb threat is not a prank. It creates fear, disrupts the community, and forces authorities to divert critical resources to ensure that lives are protected. We will take every threat seriously and pursue those responsible,” Abrahano also said.
Under Presidential Decree No. 1727, a person involved in such threats may face imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of P40,000 or both, at the discretion of the court.
Following the bomb threats, the NCRPO has ordered police units to strengthen coordination with school officials, local government units, and school responders to address the problem.
It also urged school officials and the public to report threats immediately, preserve relevant evidence, and refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary panic or compromise the investigation.
“To those contemplating making a bomb threat or spreading a bomb joke, think twice. What you may consider a prank can have serious legal consequences,” Abrahano said.
“We will investigate, we will pursue every available lead, and those found responsible will be held accountable under the law,” Abrahano also said.