The Philippines has placed all its commercial airports on high alert following an anonymous warning of potential bomb threats on flights departing from Manila, including routes to popular tourist destinations, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

Enhanced security measures are being implemented immediately at 42 commercial airports across the country as authorities work to verify the credibility of the threat. The warning was communicated via email to air traffic services, specifying a threat to flights departing from Manila to destinations including Davao, Bicol, Palawan, and Cebu.

Although the information is still under validation, CAAP has taken swift action to bolster security at airports nationwide. The exact date of the warning was not disclosed.

On Friday, CAAP released a memorandum dated October 4, which had been issued to airport security managers, instructing them to intensify security measures, conduct thorough baggage inspections, and maintain round-the-clock surveillance in response to the email threat. The email reportedly contained a statement that did not include the word “bomb” but mentioned that “an airplane will explode” at Manila’s international airport on that day, and it warned of potential incidents in Cebu, Palawan, Bicol, and Davao as well.

Despite the security concerns, Philippines Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air indicated that they were operating as usual, following standard protocols.

Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista noted that patrols have been increased, K9 units deployed at all terminals of Manila’s international airport, and close coordination between law enforcement agencies. He assured the public that there were no expected disruptions to scheduled flights and that protocols were in place to ensure safety and security for travelers.

Source: with agencies