Bomb Joke Lands Passenger in Hot Water at NAIA

Bomb Joke Lands Passenger in Hot Water at NAIA

By Bing R Jabadan – Thenationweek.com

May 26, 2025

PASAY CITY, Philippines – A passenger learned the hard way that bomb jokes are no laughing matter after allegedly making a threat at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

Leocardo Tugahan, 48, was apprehended and is now facing an investigation for violating Presidential Decree 1727, or the Anti-Bomb Joke Law.

The incident occurred at about 4:11 PM at Bay 126, where Tugahan was preparing to board Cebu Pacific flight 5J571 to Cebu.

Initial reports showed that Jose Tayao from the 1Aviation Operations Control Center overheard Tugahan making a remark that was interpreted as a bomb threat.

Tayao immediately alerted APO2 Leda Frelyn, an officer from the Airport Police Department stationed at Terminal 3.

The report triggered a swift response. PLT Camilo A. Finuliar, SDO of the NAIA Police Station 3, promptly mobilized his team, including investigation and intelligence personnel, to the scene.

Upon arrival, they initiated a validation process and took control of the situation.

Adding another layer of security, AVSECU-NCR personnel, led by PMAJ Francis Camu, AVSECU assistant chief, conducted a thorough inspection of all baggage belonging to passengers on the affected flight.

The search yielded no incendiary materials or explosive devices.

Despite the negative findings, authorities continued with the investigation.

About 5:50 PM, Tugahan was taken into custody and transported to NPS3 for further questioning.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has warned the public against making such threats, emphasizing that they will not be tolerated.