Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. met with officials from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Anti-Cybercrime Group on October 9, 2025, to address the alarming spread of bomb threat hoaxes targeting schools across the First District.
Since September, several false bomb threats have circulated on social media, affecting schools such as National University Clark, Angeles City National Trade School, City College of Angeles, Gov. Rafael L. Lazatin Integrated School, Pampanga State University–Don Honorio Ventura State University, and University of the Assumption, among others.
“Dapat nating kaagad na maimbestigahan ang isyung ito dahil ito ay nagdudulot ng matinding pangamba sa ating mga kababayan,” Lazatin said, expressing concern over the psychological impact on students and parents.
On October 8, Lazatin sought the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Philippine Coast Guard’s assistance in deploying additional bomb-sniffing dogs to reinforce security in schools and universities.
He also urged law enforcement, particularly the Anti-Cybercrime Group, to intensify their investigation and hold accountable those responsible for spreading fake threats. In his letter to PBGEN. Bernard Yang, Lazatin called the bomb threat hoaxes “an act of terror – plain and simple.”
Quoting Presidential Decree No. 1727 and the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, Lazatin underscored that spreading false information or threats involving explosives is punishable by up to 12 years in prison.
“These false bomb threats have caused undue fear and stress in our communities. It has to stop,” he said.
The PNP confirmed that similar hoaxes have also been reported in Metro Manila, Bulacan, and Legazpi City, indicating a wider pattern of cyber mischief.
Lazatin assured the NBI and PNP of his full support. “Pagtulungan nating matuldukan ang pagpapakalat ng false bomb threats. Huwag po kayong mag-atubiling lumapit sa opisina ko. Laging handang tumulong ang aming tanggapan,” he said.
Among those present at the meeting were NBI Region 3 Director Atty. Renoir Baldovino, Pampanga Police Director PCOL. Eugene Marcelo, PCOL. Joselito Villarosa Jr., PMAJ. Marlon Ventus, PLTCOL. Efren David, PLTCOL. Jose Charlimar Gundaya, PCOL. Efren Fernandez II, PCPT. Bryan James Taguinod, DepEd officials Dr. Armando Capili and Ms. Clarisa Lagman, and members of the NBI legal team.
Lazatin was joined by Chief Political Affairs Officer Reina Manuel.
