It's never a good idea to joke about bombs at airports. The only thing that's even stupider is making fake bomb threats. A passenger who joked in Laoag (Philippines) now also feels this.

The traveler wanted to fly from Laoag to Manilla on January 3, 2024. But that didn't happen because during the security check she was asked what was in her hand luggage. She joked around that there was a bomb in there. At first she didn't mean it, but the officers responded dutifully and raised the alarm. Better safe than sorry.

And when it comes to security, the German-Dutch dual citizen also had to get to know the police and the judiciary. She was immediately taken away by the police and arrested. She is currently in custody because a judge will not decide how to proceed until shortly.

The Philippines severely punishes bomb-related hoaxes that can compromise security. There is also Presidential Decree No. 1727. This also criminalizes deliberate false statements that imply that explosive materials are in a bag, for example. In the event of a final conviction, the woman could now face a lot of trouble. The court can impose a fine of the equivalent of $720, up to five years in prison, or a combination thereof. In any case, the unruly PAX is not allowed to leave the Philippines until further notice.