Seafarer faces charges over bomb joke at NAIA

Seafarer faces charges over bomb joke at NAIA
Benjamin L. Vergara May 29, 2026 https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/29/news/seafarer-faces-charges-over-...

MANILA, Philippines — A Butuan-bound Filipino seafarer was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 after making a bomb joke during aircraft boarding, the PNP Aviation Security Group (Avsegroup) reported on Friday.

The incident occurred on May 26, 2026 when a cabin crew member asked the passenger about the contents of his bag.

The passenger allegedly replied that it contained a bomb, later claiming he was just joking.

Crew members immediately reported the statement to airport authorities, prompting standard security protocols.

The passenger, a 26-year-old seafarer from Talisayan, Misamis Oriental, was scheduled to travel to Butuan City.

Aviation police, along with bomb disposal and K9 units, immediately deployed to check the passenger's luggage and the surrounding area, but no explosive or dangerous materials were found.

The suspect was later taken into custody by police for the alleged violation of Presidential Decree 1727, ot the Anti-Bomb Joke Law.

Brig. Gen. Dionisio B. Bartolome, Avsegroup chief, said that all statements involving bombs or explosives were treated with utmost seriousness and even jokes were not taken lightly as they could cause panic and disrupt airport operations.

"We urge the public to always be responsible with their words, especially inside airport premises," Bartolome said.