Manila: Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has mobilized intelligence and cybercrime units to identify individuals responsible for spreading malicious bomb threats at the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila campus.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez emphasized the seriousness of spreading false information that incites panic and threatens public safety. He assured that the PNP is determined to hold the perpetrators accountable for the malicious threats. In response to the incident, he has also instructed local police units to enhance security measures, ensuring heightened visibility and readiness to respond swiftly to any further disruptions, prioritizing the safety of academic communities.
Students and faculty at UP Manila were evacuated following an anonymous bomb threat targeting Calderon Hall and the National Teacher Training Center for the Health Professions. The threat, received via email, included the university's coordinates and red-tagging allegations. The Manila Police District (MPD) was immediately dispatched to verify the threat. UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael Tee condemned the incident and announced collaboration with the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group to identify those responsible and pursue legal action.
Efforts are underway, as stated by Nartatez, to trace and identify the source of the threatening messages. He issued a stern warning against spreading hoax bomb threats, highlighting the legal consequences for those found guilty of such actions. Nartatez also urged students, faculty, and the public to remain vigilant and cautious.
In recent developments, the PNP has strengthened its collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and telecommunications companies to combat bomb threats. Furthermore, the PNP supports proposed legislation in the Senate aimed at imposing tougher penalties on individuals responsible for hoax bomb threats, including those disseminated through social media and messaging platforms.
