Two passengers were barred from traveling after making bomb jokes during check-in at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on Friday evening.
The two male passengers, bound for Taipei, were checking in their baggage when airline staff asked the standard security question on prohibited items. Instead of answering directly, they joked that their bag did not contain a bomb.
Airline personnel immediately warned them that any reference to bombs or explosives inside airport premises is treated as a serious security threat.
The Philippine National Police–Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup) and airport authorities were promptly alerted. Joel E. Zurbano
Police coordinated security protocols, including the deployment of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team and an explosive detection dog. After a thorough sweep, the area was declared clear of any explosive materials.
The passengers were escorted to the NAIA Police Station for documentation. PNP-Avsegroup chief Brig. Gen. Dionisio Bartolome Jr. reiterated that bomb jokes cause panic, disrupt operations, and violate aviation security rules.
