Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. has commended police officers for the swift arrest of an 18-year-old suspect accused of posting bomb threats against several schools in San Ildefonso, Bulacan.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez stated that the arrest highlights the PNP's commitment to respond decisively to threats that endanger students, teachers, and any community members. This action aligns with the directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to ensure the protection of learning institutions and communities from criminal activities.
Police investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly posted bomb threats on the official social media pages of several schools in San Ildefonso earlier this week. Following reports, investigators tracked and arrested the individual in Barangay Hilera, Jaen, Nueva Ecija on Tuesday night.
Nartatez praised the strong coordination between police cybercrime investigators and the local police, which led to the arrest. He emphasized that this case reinforces the PNP's commitment to ensuring the safety of learners, school personnel, and authorities as assured to the Department of Education.
The PNP chief assured that appropriate criminal charges would be filed against the suspect, serving as a warning to those who disregard the law. 'The Philippine National Police will find you,' Nartatez declared.
Nartatez directed all Police Regional Offices and local police units to coordinate with DepEd's regional and division offices on school threat response protocols. He also instructed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to intensify investigations into online bomb threats and viral threat messages targeting schools.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report bomb threats and security concerns through the Unified 911 Hotline to enable quick response and prevent harm.
Meanwhile, PNP-ACG chief Maj. Gen. Wilson Asueta warned against individuals posting online bomb threats targeting schools, stressing the serious implications of such actions on daily operations, businesses, and educational activities.
