Iloilo City officials have launched a comprehensive response to multiple bomb threats targeting educational institutions, with Mayor Raisa Treñas announcing a significant cash reward for information leading to the perpetrators.
Emergency Security Meeting Convened
Mayor Treñas held an urgent meeting with top security officials from the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) in Western Visayas, and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Western Visayas office. The emergency session focused on addressing nine confirmed bomb threats that have disrupted classes in both public and private schools since last week.
The mayor emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that the threats have created significant disruption to the education system and raised broader security concerns for the entire city.
Substantial Reward Offered
The Iloilo City Government will provide a P100,000 reward to anyone who can identify those responsible for the series of bomb threats. This substantial incentive aims to encourage community members to come forward with any information that could aid investigators.
"We are serious about this," Mayor Treñas declared. "This is not just the issue of the education of the youth, but also the security issue of the entire city."
Enhanced Security Measures Implemented
Following the security briefing, Mayor Treñas has directed the ICPO to intensify patrols and increase police visibility around schools and other potential targets. The mayor also advised students to return home immediately when face-to-face classes are suspended due to security concerns.
Authorities are urging the public to report any bomb threats immediately to NBI-6 and RACU-6 for verification and assistance. The prompt reporting allows investigators to quickly assess threats and minimize unnecessary disruptions.
False threats constitute criminal offenses under Presidential Decree 1721, carrying penalties of up to five years imprisonment, a P40,000 fine, or both. The Iloilo Police Provincial Office, under Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, has reminded citizens to avoid any actions that could trigger panic or compromise public safety.
The coordinated response demonstrates the city's commitment to restoring security and ensuring the safety of students and residents amid the concerning series of threats.
