By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. has commended police officers for the swift arrest of an 18-year-old suspect accused of posting bomb threats against several schools in San Ildefonso, Bulacan.
In a statement on Thursday, Nartatez said the arrest underscores the PNP’s commitment to respond decisively to threats that endanger students, teachers, and any member of a community in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to ensure the protection of learning institutions and communities from all forms of criminal activity.
“Bomb threats and similar hoaxes are never harmless because they create fear, disrupt classes, and divert police resources from real emergencies. This successful operation shows the PNP’s commitment to run after those who violate the law in the interest of peace and order and public safety,” said Nartatez.
Police investigation showed that the suspect allegedly posted bomb threats on the official social media pages of several schools in San Ildefonso earlier this week. Acting on the reports, investigators tracked the suspect and arrested him in Barangay Hilera, Jaen, Nueva Ecija on Tuesday night.
Nartatez commended the strong coordination and cooperation between police cybercrime investigators and the local police in identifying the perpetrator that eventually led to the arrest.
He said the dedication shown by the police in this case reinforces the commitment that the PNP assured the Department of Education to ensure the safety of learners, school personnel, and authorities.
The country’s top cop assured that all the appropriate criminal charges will be filed against the suspect. “Let this serve as a stern warning against those who disregard and disrespect the law for whatever selfish interest; the Philippine National Police will find you.”
“We will continue working closely with DepEd, school officials, and local government units to ensure that every threat is treated seriously and investigated promptly,” he added.
To support the implementation of the policy, Nartatez directed all Police Regional Offices and local police units to immediately coordinate with DepEd regional and division offices on school threat response protocols.
He also instructed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to intensify investigations into online bomb threats, fake shooting alerts, and viral threat messages targeting schools.
The PNP Chief also urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report bomb threats and other security concerns through the Unified 911 Hotline to enable authorities to respond quickly and prevent possible harm.
Meanwhile, PNP-ACG chief Maj. Gen. Wilson Asueta issued a warning against individuals posting online bomb threats targeting schools.
“This isn’t an ordinary joke because it affects our daily operations, businesses, and educational activities. It hampers a lot of activities,” Asueta said in an interview at Camp Crame on Wednesday.
“We’re monitoring it closely. We have a way of verifying and validating who is posting these bomb jokes. So, if we catch you, I’m sorry, but you will be charged and jailed,” he added. (PNA)
