Ninoy Aquino International Airport has long prohibited making bomb jokes. Inquirer file photo/Richard A. Reyes.
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� A 48-year-old man on a commercial flight bound for Cebu was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 3 for making a bomb joke.
In a statement on Monday, the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP AVSEG) said the incident took place last Sunday.
READ: Bomb jokes still not funny, remain criminal offenses
鈥淭he passenger reportedly made a comment suggesting the presence of a grenade inside his bag as it was being stowed in the overhead bin. A member of the cabin crew immediately reported the statement to airline and airport security personnel,鈥� AVSEG said.
鈥淔ollowing standard operating procedures, the aircraft was isolated while thorough bomb detection procedures were conducted. No explosive or incendiary materials were found, and the aircraft was subsequently declared safe for departure,鈥� the police added.
According to the AVSEG, the suspect was taken into the custody of the Naia Police Station 3 for further legal proceedings.
Bomb jokes are punishable under Presidential Decree No. 1727./mr