BACOLOD City – Following a bomb threat received via email by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) late last week, the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Unit – Western Visayas has implemented stricter security measures at the Bacolod-Silay Airport in Negros Occidental.
Major Deejay Domingo, chief of the Bacolod-Silay Airport Police Station, stated on Monday that there is close coordination with CAAP to maintain an elevated security presence.
“In collaboration with CAAP’s security forces, we’ve deployed a K-9 unit and brought in a bomb technician to bolster our security protocols at the airport,” he said.
To ensure the safety of all travelers, the airport has initiated measures such as intensified security checks, random patrols, and thorough perimeter inspections.
“While these measures might extend processing times, they are vital for ensuring the safety and security of everyone,” Domingo added.
Domingo further urged passengers to adhere strictly to airport rules and guidelines.
“Making bomb-related jokes or comments can lead to serious repercussions, including flight delays, potential imprisonment, or hefty fines,” he emphasized.
Flights from Bacolod-Silay Airport connect travelers to Manila, Cebu, and Clark in Pampanga.
In response to the email bomb threat received on Oct. 6, CAAP has raised the security alert across all 42 commercial airports in the country.
CAAP’s official statement read: “An email warning indicated potential bomb threats on aircraft departing from Manila to destinations like Puerto Princesa, Mactan-Cebu, Bicol, and Davao International. We are currently validating this information but have immediately heightened security measures across all our airports as a precaution.” (PNA)