The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) is urging air travelers to report any bomb jokes made inside aircraft and airport facilities, especially during the holiday season when a higher number of passengers is expected.
“Your security and the security of others is not a laughing matter. If you see or hear something suspicious, report it immediately. Together, we can ensure a safe and secure environment for all travelers. Stay vigilant,” it advised.
The agency reminds the public that making bomb jokes is punishable by law under Presidential Decree No. 1727.
According to the law, anyone who willfully makes a threat or maliciously conveys false information about attempting to kill, injure, or intimidate someone, or unlawfully damage or destroy property using explosives or incendiary devices, may face imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to P40,000.00, or both, at the discretion of the court.
This applies to all forms of communication, including spoken words, mail, telephone, telegraph, printed materials, and other means.
“Such actions may also result in passengers being offloaded from the aircraft,” warned the OTS.
Recently, two travelers were taken into police custody after making a bomb joke that caused a delay for a Manila-bound flight from Bacolod-Silay Airport. Additionally, a 61-year-old passenger was offloaded at San Jose Airport after making remarks about a potential explosion in her luggage while boarding her flight to Manila.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has appealed to the public to refrain from making bomb jokes or spreading rumors about threats in order to prevent panic and inconvenience.
Airport and aviation authorities are implementing enhanced security measures at 44 airports nationwide to ensure passenger safety during the ‘Undas’ holiday travel period.
In 2023, CAAP recorded 2.1 million passengers traveling from October to November, an increase from 1.9 million during the same period in 2022. This year, CAAP anticipates an additional 7-10% rise in passenger movement.
