Manila: Law enforcement agencies in Iloilo are exhausting all means to identify those behind the series of bomb threats that disrupted classes in this city and province of Iloilo.

According to Philippines News Agency, Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit – Western Visayas head Lt. Col. Richard Habawel confirmed that processes are underway to identify the perpetrators and file appropriate cases. “Rest assured, something positive will come out of this investigation. We will bring to justice those who did this,” Habawel stated during a media interview. He had attended a meeting convened by Mayor Raisa Tre±as at the city hall, alongside Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) Director Col. Kim Legada and National Bureau of Investigation Western Visayas Assistant Regional Director Arnold Diaz. Shortly after their meeting, another bomb threat emerged at a private university in the area.

Data from the ICPO indicates there have been 11 reported bomb threats since November 12, with nine originating from the city and two from other local government units. Habawel emphasized their commitment to identifying and locating the perpetrators, drawing parallels to a similar case last year where the suspect was identified and a case filed.

Col. Kim Legada stressed the serious nature of these threats, noting the disruption to routines, particularly in educational settings where students miss out on learning opportunities. He stated, “These incidents, we don’t treat them as amusement or joke because it really affects the normal routine, especially in schools where students are deprived of learning for that specific period. Schedules are disrupted, so we have to stop this practice.”

Investigations by the Explosives and Ordnance Disposal and K-9 unit have so far yielded negative results in the areas where bombs were allegedly placed. Legada reiterated their determination to identify the suspects and ensure that cases are filed. He also advised students to return home directly if classes are suspended due to these threats.

In response to the ongoing situation, Mayor Tre±as announced a PHP100,000 reward for information leading to those responsible for the threats. She also instructed establishments and government offices to enhance their security measures. “Our ICPO is on top of the situation. I have instructed ICPO to strengthen police visibility and presence; review security setup in malls, offices and other areas of convergence,” she stated.

Additionally, the Schools Division of Iloilo has requested increased police visibility around school premises, especially during student arrival and dismissal times. They also sought support for security inspections, emergency response drills, and information dissemination to prevent misinformation and manage public concern, alongside a thorough investigation into the threats’ origins and intent.