Bomb Joke at NAIA Terminal 3 Ends With Airport Staff Arrest
BOMB JOKE – A bomb joke made by an airport staff member quickly escalated into a full security response at NAIA Terminal 3.
An airport staff member was arrested after making a bomb-related joke at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on Monday, January 26, an incident that briefly caused alarm among aviation security personnel.
According to the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP), initial findings showed that the suspect, identified as a station loader, was undergoing manual inspection when the incident occurred. While handing over his vest, the airport worker jokingly shouted,
“OH… AYAN MAY BOMBA DYAN!”
The remark, although allegedly made in jest, immediately raised concern among the security staff on duty.
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Aviation security personnel promptly reminded the individual that making statements related to bombs or explosive devices is strictly prohibited and carries corresponding legal penalties. Due to the seriousness of the situation, supervisory officers were immediately notified. The airport staff member, along with other individuals connected to the incident, was then escorted to NAIA Police Station 3 for proper disposition.
As part of standard security procedures, the PNP Aviation Security Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit conducted clearing and sniffing operations in the area where the joke was made. Authorities later confirmed that no explosive devices or suspicious items were found during the inspection, and the area was declared safe.
Despite the absence of any actual threat, the PNP-AVSEGROUP emphasized that bomb jokes are treated seriously, especially within airport premises, where public safety is a top priority. At present, a criminal complaint is being prepared against the airport staff member, who remains under the custody of NAIA Police Station 3.
Photo Source: Police Files! Tonite
In a statement, PBGen Dionisio B. Bartolome Jr., Director of the PNP AVSEGROUP, strongly reminded the public to be cautious and responsible with their words, particularly in high-security areas such as airports. He stressed that careless remarks, even if intended as jokes, can cause unnecessary panic and disrupt airport operations.
“Any form of joke involving bombs or explosives will be dealt with accordingly. We remind everyone to remain responsible and mindful of their words, as such remarks compromise security and public safety inside airport premises”,
the official said.
Authorities reiterated that airport security measures are in place to ensure the safety of passengers and personnel, and any action that threatens or undermines these measures will not be taken lightly under the law.
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