MUARIP (center). (FB)
DAVAO CITY – The Davao City Police Office condemned the recent bomb threats targeting schools here, all of which were confirmed to be false alarms following inspection and clearing operations by the City Explosive and Canine Unit.
In an official statement on Thursday, Oct. 23, acting DCPO director Police Col. Mannan Muarip said that while authorities did not find any explosives, such false threats create fear, disrupt classes, and waste government resources.
The latest incident occurred on Thursday when Kristopher Glen Ultiano Uy, a Talomo National High School teacher, reported receiving a message via the school’s Facebook page from an account named “Nako Dump,” which claimed that a bomb had been planted inside the school.
At around 7:40 a.m., a team led by Police Capt. Edison John Pajota arrived at the campus to conduct a thorough inspection. After an hour-long sweep, the school was declared clear at 8:30 a.m., with no explosive devices or suspicious materials found.
Muarip, though grateful for the negative report, assured the public that the DCPO and other government authorities here treat these incidents seriously. “Such false threats cause unnecessary fear and panic among students, parents, and the community,” he said.
The Davao City police director said they have formed a special investigating team to identify and apprehend those responsible for the series of bomb threats. He added that the perpetrators will face appropriate criminal charges under existing laws once caught.
“We remind the public that spreading false information, particularly about bomb threats, is a serious crime punishable under the law. The DCPO will not tolerate any actions that disturb the peace and safety of our schools and communities,” Muarip said.
Under Presidential Decree 1727, anyone who spreads or jokes about a bomb threat – whether in person or through any form of communication, including social media – may face imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of P40,000.
Muarip urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and responsible, and continue cooperating with the government authorities to preserve Davao City’s reputation as one of the safest cities in the country.