At least 176 passengers were deplaned in Iloilo City due to an alleged bomb joke.

The passengers were on board an Iloilo-to-Manila flight on March 4, 2025.

Based on investigation by the Aviation Security Unit (AVSEU) 6, a passenger of the airline joked reportedly to a companion of a grenade inside his bag.

A crew member heard the conversation and reported immediately to the authorities.

“After the incident we took custody on him and also yung clinearing [clearing] po namin ang eroplano. Once cleared na po siya, declared by our AP K-9, ni-release na po namin ang eroplano,” Lt. Col. Gazbamiller Guzman, AVSEU Group assistant chief, said.

The airline was later on cleared and allowed to travel. 

Authorities have reiterated that passengers should avoid bomb jokes.

“Sinisigurado namin ang security ng lahat ng eroplano, flight crews na walang mangyari sa kanila. Kahit biro yan, we take it seriously,” Guzman added.

The passenger was taken into the custody of the AVSEU 6.

Charges for violating Presidential Decree Number 1727, or the Anti-Bomb Joke Law will be filed against the suspect.

The said law stipulates that the suspect can be imprisoned for about five years and fined  P40,000 if proven guilty of the charges.