CEBU CITY – Operations at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport were disrupted due to a bomb joke made inside an aircraft that was about to land past 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 22.
A BOMB joke marred operations at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport on Saturday, March 22. (CAAP FB)
A flight attendant of Cebu Pacific flight 5J617 overheard the alleged bomb joke remark made by two passengers.
The two passengers were subsequently placed under police custody.
Upon receiving information from tower personnel, the CAAP Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) promptly responded to assess the situation.
The pilot requested the immediate clearance of the aircraft cabin and baggage for a thorough security inspection.
By 12:43 p.m., authorities confirmed that the aircraft was free of any explosive threat. All passengers and crew members were declared safe and flight operations resumed without further incident.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reminded the public that making bomb jokes is a serious offense punishable under Presidential Decree No. 1727.
The law strictly prohibits false bomb threats. Violators may face imprisonment for not more than five years or a fine of up to P40,000.
The CAAP urged passengers to exercise caution and responsibility in their statements to uphold the safety and security of all travelers.