San fernando: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed an investigation into a series of bomb scares that paralyzed eight elementary schools in San Fernando, Pampanga as it warned individuals behind it that they will face the full force of the law. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. ordered the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3), San Fernando City Police Station, and Anti-Cybercrime Group to intensify the investigation and identify the individuals behind the online bomb threats.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gen. Nartatez has mandated police units to strengthen cyber patrols to detect similar threats targeting schools and ensure that appropriate criminal charges are filed. This directive aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s order for the swift enforcement of the law against individuals who exploit digital platforms to spread fear and disrupt public services.

"We take every bomb threat seriously because the safety of our students, teachers, and school personnel is our highest priority," Nartatez emphasized. The bomb threats, which circulated on Facebook, prompted a thorough response from police units, leading to the declaration that the eight schools in San Fernando were safe.

The affected schools, including Potrero National High School and Duat, San Antonio, Balas, Sta. Barbara, Bacolor, Potrero, and Parulog Elementary Schools, were all declared safe after inspections by the Pampanga Provincial Explosive and Canine Unit found no explosive materials. Classes resumed after the all-clear was given.

Nartatez commended the swift actions of the responding police units and the Explosive and Canine Unit, stating, "We will continue to investigate this incident and hold those responsible accountable under the law." He further noted that while no explosive devices were found, such incidents disrupt education and sow unnecessary fear within communities. The PNP remains committed to pursuing all investigative leads, including the digital trail of those behind these threats, and will not tolerate acts that endanger public safety.