Two passengers were taken into police custody today, March 22, 2025, after making a bomb joke upon landing at Bohol-Panglao International Airport, authorities said.
The incident occurred on Cebu Pacific flight 5J-617, which landed at approximately 11:20 a.m.
A flight attendant overheard the remark, prompting immediate security protocols and the detention of the passengers involved.
“The flight attendant heard comments made by two passengers, which led to their immediate detention by police,” said a spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
Following the incident, the pilot requested a thorough security inspection of the aircraft and all baggage, activating the CAAP Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) to assess the situation.
Authorities conducted a security sweep and declared the aircraft free of any threats by 12:43 p.m., according to CAAP officials.
The passengers now face serious legal consequences under Presidential Decree No. 1727, also known as the “Anti-Bomb Joke Law,” which prohibits malicious dissemination of false information concerning bombs, explosives, or any similar device.
“Making bomb jokes in airports or aircraft is a criminal offense that carries significant penalties,” said a legal expert on transportation laws. “Violators can face imprisonment of up to five years or a fine of up to P40,000, or both, at the court’s discretion.”
The Anti-Bomb Joke Law, enacted in 1980, remains strictly enforced at all Philippine airports and aboard aircraft as part of national security measures.
This incident follows several similar cases in recent years.
In January 2023, a 21-year-old student was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport after joking about having explosives in his luggage.
In September 2022, a businessman faced charges after making bomb-related comments during a security check at Davao International Airport.
CAAP reminded the public that making bomb jokes is a serious offense under Presidential Decree No. 1727, which prohibits false bomb threats.
Violators can face up to five years imprisonment or fines of up to P40,000.
“We urge all passengers to be cautious and responsible to ensure the safety and security of all travelers,” the CAAP statement read.
Cebu Pacific released a statement reminding passengers that such remarks violate both airline policies and Philippine law.
The names of the detained passengers have not been released pending investigation.
The incident caused minimal disruption to other operations at Bohol-Panglao International Airport, CAAP officials said.