A male passenger was arrested at Davao International Airport after making a bomb joke that delayed a Cebu-bound flight on September 30, police said.
The Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group confirmed the incident, which triggered a security response at the airport. According to the Davao International Airport Police, the passenger was on board when he joked that his bag did not contain a power bank but instead a bomb.
The remark immediately raised alarm among passengers and crew, prompting the flight’s delay. Airport police escorted the passenger off the plane and placed him under custody.
Investigators said the man’s statement violated Presidential Decree 1727, also known as the Anti-Bomb Joke Law. As a result, he was arrested and offloaded from the flight.
Following security protocols, the Aviation Security Explosives and Ordnance Disposal unit conducted paneling operations to ensure the safety of the aircraft and passengers. The flight was cleared to depart only after the inspection confirmed no threat.
Authorities said the suspect remains in the custody of the Davao Airport Police while proper charges are being prepared.
Police reminded the public that bomb jokes, even if intended as humor, are taken seriously and punishable under Philippine law. “Such remarks cause unnecessary fear and disruption and will lead to arrest,” officials stressed.
The incident highlights the strict enforcement of airport safety rules and the consequences for passengers who disregard them.
