A 28-year-old air conditioning technician from Balingasag, Misamis Oriental was arrested after jokingly telling a mall security guard that he had a bomb in his backpack while undergoing a security check at a mall in Cagayan de Oro City. The remark prompted an immediate security response and a bomb sweep by authorities. The bag was later confirmed to contain only repair tools and air-conditioning accessories.
Presidential Decree No. 1727, or the Bomb Joke Law, prohibits the malicious spread of false information or threats involving bombs, explosives, or similar devices. It is intended to protect public safety and security by preventing statements that may cause panic or disrupt public order. In practice, authorities often apply PD 1727 for bomb jokes made in public places like malls, airports, and schools because it directly addresses false bomb threats.
