PNP backs stiffer penalties on hoax bomb threats

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has voiced its support for a proposed law that seeks stiffer penalties for individuals responsible for hoax bomb threats.

PNP Chief P/LtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the measure, filed by Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada as Senate Bill No. 1076, aims to update Presidential Decree No. 1727 to address the rising number of false bomb threats, including those spread through digital platforms.

“The Philippine National Police supports this proposed measure as this will add more teeth in running after those engaging in bomb threats, including through the online platforms,” Nartatez said.

The proposed legislation would expand penalties to cover threats made through social media, messaging apps, and other digital channels.

Nartatez said a technical working group from the PNP may be formed to provide input to refine the measure.

He added that the PNP is coordinating with telecommunications companies, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and social media platforms to help curb the spread of false threats.

The move follows a series of hoax bomb threats that disrupted classes at schools, including Davao Wisdom Academy on 22 October, as well as incidents reported at Bicol University and Batangas University in previous months.