A 40-year-old male passenger was arrested Wednesday at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 over a bomb joke, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Aviation Group.
The passenger was scheduled to board Cebu Pacific Flight 5J993 bound for General Santos City, South Cotabato, which was set to depart at 10:40 in the morning.
In a statement by the PNP Aviation Group, the incident occurred as a cabin crew member was assisting the passenger with his carry-on luggage.
He allegedly made a remark implying the presence of an explosive, prompting authorities to delay the flight and initiate standard security protocols.
“The suspect is now in the custody of the NAIA Police Station 3 for further legal proceedings and filing of cases in relation to Presidential Decree 1727,” the PNP said in a statement.
P.D. 1727, or the Anti-Bomb Joke Law, imposes penalties on those who disseminate false information or make threats about bombs or destructive devices.
Convictions carry penalties of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to P40,000, or both.