BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA
BACOLOD City – A Cebu Pacific flight bound for Manila from Bacolod-Silay Airport in Silay City, Negros Occidental was delayed after a passenger received a bomb threat.
Based on the information released by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Cebu Pacific flight 5J472 was forced to disembark all 193 passengers after one of them received a message via AirDrop showing a picture of a bomb and the words “THE PLANE IS GOING TO GO BOOM!” around 11:39 p.m. on Sunday, July 2.
AirDrop is an inclusive feature for Apple devices wherein they can wirelessly share and receive photos or messages.
After the passengers were safely disembarked, the Philippine National Police – Aviation Security and Emergency Unit immediately inspected the aircraft and cargo, while the passengers had to again go through an x-ray security check.
No explosive device was found.
The flight was rescheduled and was able to leave the airport at around 2:18 a.m. yesterday.
As of this writing, authorities were still investigating the source of the bomb threat.
“In collaboration with relevant agencies, we continue to prioritize the safety and security of air travel. Passengers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or information to the authorities to help maintain a safe and secure aviation environment,” CAAP said.
Under Presidential Decree No. 1727, creating a hoax bomb threat is against the law in the Philippines and carries a penalty of five years imprisonment, a fine of not more than P40,000, or both.
The offender is also not entitled to bail pending trial by the courts./PN
