PNP reviews bomb threat response protocols amid university incidents

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered a review of its bomb threat response protocols following threats targeting schools and universities.

“We must ensure that our bomb threat protocols evolve with the threats we face,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said on Wednesday.

“Our response must be swift, our personnel well-trained, and our investigative capabilities strong enough to identify those responsible and prevent similar incidents,” he added.

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The University of Santo Tomas (UST) suspended face-to-face classes on Saturday, Oct. 24, following a bomb threat.

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READ: UST suspends Saturday classes after bomb threat

In an advisory, the UST announced that classes at all levels and office operations would shift to an enriched virtual learning mode and remote work arrangements as a precaution.

Meanwhile, De La Salle University (DLSU) in Manila evacuated students, faculty, and staff from its campus on Monday afternoon, Oct. 26, after a bomb threat.

READ: DLSU Manila suspends classes from 1 pm to 6 pm on Oct. 26

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The Manila Police District earlier reported that the threat was sent via email.

Following the reported threat, DLSU Senior Vice President Khai Shan Fernandez ordered a campus-wide evacuation as a precaution to ensure students’ safety.

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“Every bomb threat must be treated with urgency and investigated thoroughly,” Nartatez said.

The top cop said police would establish the facts, determine possible links among the incidents, and pursue those responsible under the law. /mcm