Ang Pahayagan

PAMPANGA — The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has intensified its security measures and monitoring efforts after a series of bomb threats were reported in various schools across Central Luzon in recent days.

Authorities confirmed that several schools received alarming messages about alleged explosive devices, leading to immediate evacuations and clearing operations. Explosives and Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, K9 teams, and local police were deployed to assess the threats, all of which were later verified as false alarms.

PRO3 Regional Director Police Brig. General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. assured the public that there is no real threat to safety but strongly warned that spreading false bomb threats is a serious offense punishable under Presidential Decree 1727, which criminalizes hoaxes that cause public panic and disrupt operations.

“We understand the fear these messages bring, but rest assured, PRO3 is on top of the situation,” Police Brig. General Peñones said. “While these turned out to be hoaxes, we remind everyone that making or sharing false bomb threats is not a joke—it is punishable by law.”

The regional director ordered all police units to enhance coordination with local government units (LGUs), school officials, and barangay leaders to ensure the safety of students and school personnel. He also instructed regular patrols, inspections, and information campaigns to maintain public vigilance.

Police Brig. General Peñones also urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information on social media, noting that misinformation can cause unnecessary panic and disrupt educational activities.

“Security is a shared responsibility. We urge everyone to stay calm, cooperate with authorities, and report any suspicious activity through official police hotlines or social media channels,” he emphasized.

He added that these proactive security measures are in line with the PNP’s Focused Agenda under Acting Chief PNP Police Lt. General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., through the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) framework, which promotes intelligence-driven and coordinated police actions to maintain peace and safety.

“We continue to uphold swift and responsive public service to keep our schools safe havens for learning,” Police Brig. General Peñones concluded. (Jason de Asis)

📸 PRO3