CAMP OLIVAS – The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has stepped up its efforts against the recent wave of bomb threat hoaxes targeting schools across Central Luzon, warning that those behind these malicious acts will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted.
Since May 1, 2026, PRO3 has maintained heightened security measures in response to bomb threat reports involving educational institutions. Police units have promptly validated every report, strengthened police visibility in and around school campuses, and worked closely with school officials, local government units, and partner agencies to safeguard students, teachers, and school personnel.
To support these efforts, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, K9 units, and the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 3 (RACU 3) continue to work hand in hand in responding to every reported threat while tracing the source of messages sent through social media, email, messaging applications, and other digital platforms.
From May 1 to date, PRO3 has recorded 47 bomb threat reports involving schools across the region. Although all incidents were ultimately confirmed to be hoaxes, each one was treated as a real threat. This meant the immediate deployment of police personnel, EOD teams, K9 units, and emergency responders, resulting in class disruptions and the diversion of valuable police resources from other public safety and law enforcement operations.
The sustained investigations have already led to the arrest of two 18-year-old suspects—one in Bulacan and another in Nueva Ecija—both of whom are now facing appropriate criminal charges. Their apprehension demonstrates that those who spread fear online or through other means can and will be held accountable.
Regional Director PBGEN Jess B. Mendez emphasized that bomb threat hoaxes are serious crimes with real and far-reaching consequences.
“Since May, we have responded to 47 bomb threat reports involving schools across Central Luzon. Every one of those reports disrupted classes, caused fear among students, parents, and teachers, and diverted police resources from genuine emergencies. Enough is enough. Bomb threats are not pranks—they are criminal acts. The arrests recently made in Bulacan and Nueva Ecija send a clear message that no one can hide behind anonymous accounts or electronic devices. Together with our operating units and the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit, we will continue to identify those responsible and ensure that they answer for their actions before the law.”
PBGEN Mendez also reminded the public that making bomb threats and spreading false information that causes public alarm are punishable under existing laws. He urged everyone, particularly students and social media users, to use digital platforms responsibly.
“A message sent in jest can shut down schools, traumatize children, alarm parents and teachers, and waste government resources. We all have a shared responsibility to keep our schools safe. Think before you post, send, or share anything that could create fear or panic. For those who continue to engage in these malicious acts, let this be a warning—the long arm of the law will catch up with you,” PBGEN Mendez added.
PRO3 likewise encouraged school officials, parents, students, and the public to remain vigilant, avoid spreading unverified information, and immediately report suspicious messages, calls, or activities to the nearest police station or through the 911 emergency hotline.
As part of the Focused Agenda of PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., the Police Regional Office 3 remains committed to protecting every learner, strengthening cyber-enabled investigations, and working closely with communities and partner agencies to ensure that schools remain safe and conducive to learning. Through responsive policing and strong community partnerships, PRO3 continues to deliver “Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”
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