Strong interagency action mobilized as MMSU confronts recurring bomb threat hoaxes; two persons of interest identified in November 2024 incident
Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has intensified its security posture following a series of bomb threat hoaxes that disrupted operations in recent weeks. A convergence meeting was held on November 21 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Hall Conference Room, bringing together national and local agencies to unify strategies and coordinate their response to the bomb threat hoaxes.
The University is closely collaborating with the Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), other uniformed personnel, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), with crucial support from the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, the City Governments of Laoag and Batac, and other local government units, to track the sources of the bomb threat hoaxes, strengthen digital security, and reinforce safety protocols across all campuses while ensuring rapid response, logistical assistance, and synchronized security measures.
The University Student Council, the Faculty Association, and the Association of Non-Teaching and Administrative Personnel are also actively involved in supporting these efforts and helping maintain campus-wide vigilance. Massive information and awareness campaigns will also be conducted in the coming days to guide students, faculty, staff, and parents on proper response protocols and responsible online behavior.
The PNP confirmed that two persons of interest have already been identified in connection with the November 13, 2024 bomb threat, and the filing of charges is expected soon, with investigations strengthened by digital forensics and interagency intelligence sharing. According to the PNP Cybercrime Group, 100% of online bomb threats circulating across the Philippines are hoaxes. The only known bombing incident involving a school in recent years occurred at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City in 2023, which authorities believed to be linked to religious extremism.
MMSU President Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. commended the swift action of partner agencies and LGUs. He noted that while bomb threat hoaxes disrupt University operations and create unnecessary fear, the strong collaboration among national and local partners allows MMSU to respond decisively and protect its constituents. “Threats like these endanger people and disrupt our work. They will never be tolerated,” he said. President Manzano also thanked the national agencies and LGUs for their continued support, adding that their coordinated efforts reassure the community that accountability is already moving forward.
Several higher education institutions (HEIs) across the Philippines have recently received similar threats, prompting heightened vigilance nationwide. CHED continues coordinating with universities to harmonize safety protocols and support systems.
CHED, led by its Chairperson, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, who also serves as Chair of the MMSU Board of Regents, has directed HEIs to coordinate closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of campuses and to monitor any reports of coordinated attempts to destabilize academic institutions. In an official statement, CHED also reminded the public that although individuals retain the right to voice concerns and express their views, such right must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law.
The public is reminded that issuing or circulating false information about bombs or explosives is a criminal offense under Presidential Decree 1727 (Anti-Bomb Joke Law). Offenders face up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of up to ₱40,000, or both, upon conviction.
University officials emphasized that vigilance, cooperation, and responsible communication remain essential in keeping campuses safe. “Together with our partners, we will put an end to these hoaxes,” President Manzano added. “The safety of our university community will always come first.”
Nov, 25, 2025 09:09:am
Written By:
STRATCOM
