Authorities have confirmed that two bomb threats reported on consecutive days at separate colleges in Davao City were false alarms, following extensive security inspections that uncovered no explosives or hazardous materials. The incidents, which occurred on February 25 and 26, 2026, prompted full emergency responses from police and campus security teams.
Email Threat Triggers Lockdown at Ateneo de Davao University
On the afternoon of February 25, security forces were deployed outside Ateneo de Davao University's Jacinto Campus after the university's Office of the President received an email at 4:32 p.m. claiming a bomb had been planted in the library. Units from the Philippine National Police, including Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialists and K9 teams, conducted a systematic sweep of buildings and nearby areas, temporarily closing a portion of Jacinto Street during the operation.
During the search, two unattended bags were initially flagged as suspicious and handled according to protocol. After examination, authorities confirmed they contained only school supplies and posed no danger. By 6:50 p.m., the campus was declared safe. Investigators from the Sta. Ana Police Station are working to trace the sender of the message, with reports indicating it came from a former student.
Second Threat Hits Brokenshire College
A similar incident occurred the following day, February 26, at Brokenshire College's main campus in Madapo, where administrators suspended onsite classes and work after receiving a threat. In an official advisory, the school stated, "For the safety of everyone, all threats, whether made as a joke or not, are treated seriously."
Authorities conducted a thorough inspection of campus facilities with assistance from police and local government responders. In a follow-up notice, the administration reported, "As of 1:26 PM, the Security Team reported that after a thorough inspection of the facilities by the PNP Bomb Squad, no signs of any threat were found. The campus has been declared safe."
Classes for February 27 were shifted to synchronous online sessions, while faculty members were allowed to work remotely. Non-teaching personnel, however, were instructed to return onsite as office operations resumed. The statement was issued by Dr. Felix C. Chavez Jr., vice president for academics and officer-in-charge of the Office of the President.
Police Issue Stern Warning Against Bomb Hoaxes
The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson, Hazel Tuazon, noted that many bomb threats historically occur during examination periods, when some individuals attempt to disrupt classes. She reminded the public that making bomb threats, even as a prank, is a criminal offense punishable under Philippine law, particularly Presidential Decree 1727, which penalizes the malicious dissemination of false information about bombs.
Police stressed that each report requires immediate mobilization of personnel, evacuation procedures, and temporary closures, placing strain on emergency resources and causing public alarm. Authorities urged residents and students to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious messages, items, or activities. Investigations into both incidents remain ongoing, with police and school officials seeking to identify and charge those responsible.
