French nabbed in NAIA over bomb joke

MANILA, Philippines — A 58-year-old French passenger bound for Cebu was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 on Friday after making a bomb-related statement during the check-in process.

Investigators said the man was asked by airline staff to place his backpack on the baggage weighing counter. When asked about the contents of the bag, he allegedly said: “I have gun and a bomb.”

His answer was immediately reported, prompting the activation of aviation security protocols.

Personnel from the Philippine National Police-Aviation Security Group, NAIA Police Station 2 and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit conducted clearing operations.

The bag and the area were declared clear of explosives or incendiary materials.

The passenger, who was arrested for violation of Presidential Decree 1727 or the Anti-bomb Joke law, remains under the custody of NAIA Police Station 2.