Davao City Schools Disrupted by Bomb Threats, Police Confirm Hoaxes
Two educational institutions in Davao City experienced temporary disruptions on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, following separate bomb threats reported within a 24-hour period. The incidents prompted immediate security responses from local authorities, with both threats later declared hoaxes after comprehensive inspections by police bomb disposal units.
Security Responses and Campus Inspections
The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) confirmed that no explosive devices were discovered at Cabantian National High School and Assumption College of Davao. Thorough clearing operations were conducted by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine (EOD-K9) Unit, with additional support provided by the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. Both campuses underwent systematic security sweeps to ensure student and staff safety.
Cabantian National High School Incident
At Cabantian National High School, classes were temporarily relocated to the barangay gymnasium following an early Wednesday bomb threat report. According to DCPO spokesperson Police Captain Hazel Tuazon, the alert originated from a Grade 7 student who informed her teacher about a concerning message received via Facebook Messenger on Tuesday evening, January 20. The message claimed that a bomb had been placed somewhere within the school premises.
School authorities immediately coordinated with police officials, leading to the deployment of the EOD-K9 team for a detailed inspection of the campus. After completing their search protocol, authorities confirmed that no explosive device was found and officially declared the threat negative.
Assumption College of Davao Security Concern
A similar security situation developed at Assumption College of Davao on Wednesday night, where school administration received a bomb threat through the institution's official Facebook page. As a precautionary measure, school officials suspended all classes and coordinated closely with the DCPO, EOD-K9, and SWAT units for assessment and response.
Following thorough inspection procedures, police declared the threat a hoax and confirmed that all school buildings remained safe for occupancy. In an official statement released by the school administration, they announced that classes at all educational levels, along with regular office operations, would resume on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
The school administration expressed gratitude toward students, parents, faculty members, staff personnel, and community partners for maintaining calm and cooperative attitudes throughout the security incident.
Police Warning Regarding Bomb Threats
In response to these incidents, DCPO acting city director Police Colonel Mannan Caracas Muarip issued a public advisory reminding citizens that bomb threats constitute serious criminal offenses under Presidential Decree No. 1727. He emphasized that creating, disseminating, or joking about bomb threats—whether conducted in person, through online platforms, or via any communication method—can result in significant criminal liability.
Under existing legislation, individuals found guilty of making false bomb threats may face penalties including up to five years of imprisonment, fines reaching P40,000, or both punishments at the court's discretion. Authorities stressed that false bomb threats generate unnecessary public fear, disrupt educational operations, and divert critical law enforcement and emergency resources from legitimate security concerns.
Ongoing Investigation Efforts
The Davao City Police Office confirmed that investigations continue to identify individuals responsible for the false reports. Police officials reiterated their appeal for responsible social media usage and urged community members to report any suspicious activities through proper official channels. Both school campuses have since been declared secure by authorities, with normal educational operations scheduled to resume according to established academic calendars.
