14/07/2026
PNP ACG
SMC No. 1901
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The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG) continues to intensify its campaign against individuals who use cyberspace to spread bomb threats and sow fear in schools and communities. Through cyber intelligence and coordination with local police units and internet intermediaries, the PNP ACG ensures that those responsible for these malicious acts are identified and brought before the courts.
From January 2026 to the present, the PNP ACG has received and acted upon bomb threat reports nationwide, all of which were subjected to immediate cyber investigation in coordination with the concerned police units to identify these individuals. Meanwhile, the PNP ACG referred 8 cases to court.
The latest incidents occurred on July 8, 2026, when two successive online bomb threats disrupted educational institutions in Cavite after two individuals posted on social media claiming that explosive devices had been planted in several schools in the city, stating, "Humanda kayo, may tinanim kami na bomba sa isa sa mga sumusunod na paaralan⦠It's not joke." The suspects also taunted law enforcement authorities by posting, "Hindi kami takot sa Security Guards, PNP, at Anti-Cybercrime Group."
Despite their attempt to conceal their identities online, investigators successfully traced the account and determined that it was allegedly operated by minors. Consequently, the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 4A (RACU 4A) filed a criminal complaint through inquest proceedings against the Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL), while the other minor was rescued and turned over to Bahay Pag-asa for appropriate intervention and rehabilitation.
Both incidents demonstrate the growing misuse of social media platforms to spread fear and panic. Many offenders mistakenly believe that anonymous or newly created online accounts cannot be traced. However, through the combined efforts of the PNP ACG, local police stations, and partner agencies, individuals responsible for these threats continue to be identified and held accountable.
The PNP ACG likewise reminded the public that making bomb threats/jokes, whether through social media, messaging applications, emails, or other electronic means, is punishable under Philippine laws, including Presidential Decree No. 1727 (Anti-Bomb Joke Law), which penalizes the malicious dissemination of false information concerning bombs, explosives, or similar threats that create panic or disruption, with imprisonment up to five (5) years and a fine of up to PHP40,000, or both, at the discretion of the court.
Depending on the circumstances of the case, violators may also face other charges applicable to provisions of the Revised Penal Code and application of penalty of one degree higher under the Republic Act No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).
PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the PNP, underscored the PNP's continuing commitment to addressing emerging bomb threats in cyberspace and strengthening the country's digital security framework.
PMGEN Wilson C. Asueta, Director of the PNP ACG, reiterated that bomb threats, whether intended as a prank or a genuine act of intimidation, are serious criminal offenses. "Paalala sa publiko lalo na sa mga kabataan, hindi biro ang bomb threat. Ang bomb joke ay pinagbabawal ng batas at ang mga magulang ay maaring managot kapag ito ay nagdulot ng perwisyo at pinsala," said PMGEN Asueta.
"Ang bawat ulat ay agad naming iniimbestigahan dahil nagdudulot ito ng matinding takot, pagkaantala sa operasyon ng mga paaralan, at panganib sa kaligtasan ng publiko. Walang sinuman ang makapagtatago sa likod ng anonymous social media accounts. We have the capability to trace digital footprints, and we will ensure that those responsible are held accountable before the law," PMGEN Asueta added.
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