Kindly reminder to all air travelers, again: Bomb jokes are no laughing matter for airport authorities.
A 65-year-old Filipino-Canadian was arrested after making careless remarks about a grenade being in his bag, not realizing that mentioning bombs or explosives, even if untrue, is against airport regulations.
Alfonso Yumul Jr. was about to leave for Canada Wednesday, April 10, when he made thoughtless comments during the check-in process at the Philippine Airlines counter that raised concerns among airport staff at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1.
"Granada lang naman laman niyan (the content of the bag is just a grenade)," the suspect said, which prompted the airline representatives to immediately inform the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup).
Aviation police later checked the man's belongings, but found no explosive in his bag.
PNP-Avsegroup director, BGen Christopher Abrahano advised the public to avoid making any kind of jokes about bombs and explosives, as there are legal repercussions.
"Cracking a joke about bombs and explosives is not only irresponsible but also illegal. We take security threats seriously, and any attempt to ignore such matters will be met with swift and appropriate action," Abrahano stressed.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #filipinocanadian #carelessremarks #naiaterminal1 #aviationpolice #NoToBombJokes