ANGELES CITY – Police have apprehended a minor suspected of having posted online bomb threats against various campuses here and in other towns of Pampanga.
With his parents, the suspect was brought on Oct. 13 to the Office of the Mayor for a case conference with Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, city police director Col. Joselito Villarosa, Jr., social workers from the city social welfare and development office, and a representative from the Public Attorney’s Office.
Under Presidential Decree No. 1727, anyone who willfully makes a bomb threat or disseminates false information about bombs via any medium, including social media, faces imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to ₱40,000, or both, with no bail.
Councilor Jeselle Dayrit, chair of the council committee for peace and order, noted that although even if a minor is involved in the case, this does not grant immunity or exemption from accountability under the law. The youngster remains subject to rehabilitation under government programs designed for juvenile offenders.
Villarosa, said that guardians may also bear responsibility if proven they neglected their child’s well-being or failed to exercise proper supervision. This, he noted, underscores the principle that there are repercussions for every action and that accountability extends to families responsible for safeguarding youth.
The incidents of bomb threats in the past week triggered widespread alarm and panic, prompting disruptions to school operations and evacuations across multiple campuses. Resources allocated for genuine emergencies were diverted to respond to the threats, placing a strain on local services and logistics. Parents, students, and school staff also endured distress during the incidents.
Mayor Lazatin reminded the public that online posts and comments about threats are taken seriously and carry potential legal consequences.
“This accomplishment highlights the ability of law enforcement to trace online communications and hold offenders accountable, regardless of age, while also emphasizing rehabilitation and restorative processes for juveniles,” the mayor noted. Angeles CIO
