The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) under the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has put an end to the issue regarding the alleged bomb threat in MRT-3, labeling this a "hoax."
"After thorough inspection by our security personnel in critical infrastructure of all transportation systems, particularly MRT 3 system, we have not detected any trace of any items that might constitute a threat to the traveling public," the OTS said in a press statement released on Friday.
The OTS, however, said that they are maintaining their heightened security posture to uphold public trust.
"We also enjoin the public to report to authorized agencies any suspicious activities that would potentially cause danger to the public," said the statement.
In order to avoid causing unwarranted alarm and confusion, the public is urged to refrain from disseminating and sharing unconfirmed information online.
"We would like to remind the public that making bomb threats or spreading false information concerning bomb threat is punishable by law. Under PD 1727, it carries a fine of imprisonment of not more than five years, or a fine of not more than P40,000, or both. Bomb threats are also punishable under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, or RA 11479, with a penalty of 12 years of imprisonment," the statement read.
The security office has provided different agencies' contact information when suspicious acts are observed:
- Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) Hotline: 1326 (for any cyber-related threats)
- PNP hotlines: PNP-EOD/K9 Group: 0956-6179384
- RECU NCR: 0939-7240993
The DOTr earlier activated an Inter-Agency Task Force to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety and security of the riding public.
