In this age of air travel - and global threats - bomb jokes are a serious business.
That is the main reason government agencies, as well as airlines operating at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), recently launched an information drive to remind air travelers about the dangers of cracking bomb jokes.
The information campaign has been collectively discussed by the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP - Avsegroup), local airlines, and the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) to prevent or reduce the growing issue of bomb jokes, which have led to a series of related incidents.
These stakeholders have agreed to conduct a massive information dissemination to the public to remind them to avoid making bomb threats or bomb jokes - either intentional or unintentional - while in the airport or on board an aircraft.
The Avsegroup, whose concern is to prevent acts of unlawful interference, reported that there were eight instances of bomb jokes last year.
In January 2024, three bomb joke incidents occurred in various locations at airports, including in the provinces.
Responsible behavior
AirAsia Philippines Communication and Public Affairs head Steve Dailisan has also emphasized that there's no excuse for cracking a bomb joke on the ground or in flight, as it immediately raises the alarm among personnel and can cause discomfort among other passengers.
"Not only does it cause trouble, but it may also traumatize first-time travelers," Dailisan said.
Police authorities said making bomb jokes can lead to numerous flight delays and disrupt the regular operation of incoming and outgoing planes.
Police encourage the public to exercise responsible behavior and abstain from communicating false information, whether in person or through digital platforms, that may pose an actual threat to the nation's security.
The authorities stated they are always taking a firm stance against such "intolerable" behavior due to the potentially grave consequences it can lead to.
They added such actions would be taken with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity as they may affect public order and safety.
Anyone circulating hoax warnings through email and text messages can also be held criminally liable as it constitutes the willful dissemination of false information, which is punishable by law.
Also, anyone cracking jokes about carrying bombs could be denied carriage by the airlines.
Violators of Presidential Decree 1727 may face imprisonment of not more than five years or a fine of not more than P40,000, or both, at the discretion of the court.
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