Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has intensified security and monitoring efforts following a string of bomb threats sent to several schools across Central Luzon in recent days.
Authorities said multiple schools received alarming messages about supposed explosive devices, prompting swift evacuations and clearing operations. Responding Explosives and Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, K9 teams, and local police confirmed that all reports were false alarms.
PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., Regional Director of PRO3, assured the public that no real threat was found but warned that spreading false bomb information is a serious crime under Presidential Decree 1727, which penalizes hoaxes that cause public panic.
“We understand the fear these messages cause, but rest assured, PRO3 is on top of the situation,” PBGEN Peñones Jr said. “While all turned out to be hoaxes, we remind everyone that making or sharing false bomb threats is not a joke—it is punishable by law.”
He directed all units to strengthen coordination with LGUs, school officials, and barangay leaders to ensure student safety. Regular patrols, inspections, and information drives have been ordered to sustain vigilance and awareness.
The Regional Director also urged the public to avoid sharing unverified information online, as it can fuel unnecessary fear and disrupt classes.
“Security is a shared responsibility. We urge everyone to remain calm, cooperative, and report any suspicious activity through police hotlines or social media channels,” he added.
PBGEN Peñones Jr emphasized that these measures align with the Focused Agenda of Acting Chief PNP, PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., under the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) framework—ensuring intelligence-driven, swift, and coordinated police actions to safeguard lives and maintain order.
“Guided by the Acting Chief PNP, we continue to uphold swift and responsive public service to keep our schools safe havens for learning,” PBGEN Peñones Jr concluded.
