On October 2, 2023, an alleged bomb threat caused the Philippine Bicol Airport to be temporarily closed. On board a Cebu Pacific flight bound for Manila, a crumpled piece of paper with the words "Bomb?" was found in the toilet.
The captain of flight SJ326 decided to inform the executive branch. All 130 passengers and crew members had to leave the plane. The luggage and hand luggage of all occupants were then meticulously searched. Nothing was found. After examining the jet, the police were also able to give the all-clear.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines said Cebu Pacific cabin crew found the note in one of the toilets. The crumpled piece of paper is said to have been hidden in the compartment where the toilet paper is located. As a purely precautionary measure, the captain asked the executive for support.
Cebu Pacific airline confirmed the incident and said: “As a precautionary measure, the passengers and crew were removed from the aircraft to allow for additional security screening. The passengers were taken to the pre-departure area where they were cared for and provided with meals. Their bags were also unloaded to undergo a security check.”
But it wasn't just the Cebu-Pacific flight that was affected by a delay, the Civil Aviation Authority ordered a temporary closure of the Biscol International Airport. Five incoming planes were diverted to Manila and another five planes were not allowed to take off until the ban was lifted. The authorities are currently investigating the perpetrator.