A recent incident occurred on a Cebu Pacific flight traveling from Manila to Zamboanga City, where a bomb threat was reported onboard the aircraft on Saturday, June 14.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) disclosed that during a routine inspection of Cebu Pacific flight 5J851 upon landing at Zamboanga City airport, a cabin crew member found a tissue paper roll inside one of the lavatories with a message indicating the presence of a bomb.

Flight 5J 851 took off from Manila at 6 a.m. and touched down in Zamboanga City at 7:55 a.m.

Upon discovery, the flight attendant promptly informed airport security personnel who initiated security protocols. This involved a comprehensive inspection of the aircraft and the terminal building of the airport.

By 8:58 a.m., the inspection was concluded, and no explosives were found. The situation was deemed under control by 8:59 a.m., leading to the immediate resumption of airport operations.

Following clearance from security, passengers were allowed to board, and flight operations continued without any further disruptions, as confirmed by the CAAP.

The CAAP emphasized the seriousness of the incident, reminding the public that bomb threats, regardless of the form they take, are punishable under Presidential Decree No. 1727, which addresses the dissemination of false information related to bombs or explosives.