Security Forces Confirm Iloilo Schools Safe After Bomb Scare
The Iloilo City Government and Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) have officially declared all educational institutions secure following a series of bomb threats that targeted several campuses this week. Mayor Raisa Treñas has ordered an intensified investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible for the security scare.
Timeline of Threat Incidents
The security alerts began on November 12, 2025, when threats were reported at two major educational institutions: University of San Agustin – Sambag Campus in Barangay Sambag, Jaro District, and West Visayas State University – Janiuay Campus in Janiuay, Iloilo. The following day, November 13, 2025, another threat emerged at Iloilo Science and Technology University in La Paz District, Iloilo City.
Immediately upon receiving reports, PRO 6 dispatched specialized response teams including Explosives and Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units and canine teams to conduct thorough clearing operations and security inspections at all affected campuses. After comprehensive verification procedures, authorities confirmed that no explosive devices were found at any location, and all schools received official safety clearance.
Official Responses and Warnings
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of PRO 6, praised the coordinated efforts between local police forces and school administrators during the security operations. "The safety of our students and school personnel is our top priority. We strongly condemn any act meant to sow fear and disrupt the peace in our communities", Ligan stated, urging the public to remain calm and vigilant.
PRO 6 issued a stern reminder that spreading false bomb threats constitutes a criminal offense under Presidential Decree 1727, series of 1980. This legislation penalizes malicious dissemination of false information or willful making of threats involving bombs and explosives. Violators face severe consequences including:
- Imprisonment of up to five years
- Fines of up to P40,000
- Both imprisonment and fines at the court's discretion
City Leadership Takes Action
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas expressed deep concern over the consecutive threats that disrupted academic activities and caused anxiety among students, teachers, and parents. "This is unacceptable as it disrupts the classes of our children and causes fear among teachers, students, parents, and the public", the mayor emphasized.
Treñas has directed Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) Director Police Colonel Kim Legada to conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify the individuals or groups responsible. "We want to ensure the safety of everyone and prevent this from happening again", she added during a meeting with ICPO officials including officer-in-charge Police Lieutenant Colonel Lindley Barrientos and spokesperson Police Major Shella Mae Sangrines.
The mayor delivered a strong message in both English and Hiligaynon, stating: "Gusto naton ipabalo sa tanan nga indi ini dapat pagtrataron bilang joke. Dako guid ini nga huol sa tanan, sa mga estudyante, teachers, kag publiko" (We want to let everyone know that this should not be treated as a joke. This is a big problem for everyone, students, teachers, and the public).
Ongoing Security Measures
As the investigation continues, PRO 6 has urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to immediately report any suspicious persons, items, or activities to 911 or the nearest police station. The police force reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout Western Visayas under General Ligan's leadership.
Mayor Treñas has ordered ICPO to file appropriate charges against anyone found responsible and has requested law enforcement to conduct awareness sessions in schools about the seriousness of bomb threats and the importance of responsible reporting. All security protocols remain activated to ensure continuous protection for educational institutions and the general public.
