13-2-2024 (MANILA) Several government offices and schools in Metro Manila, Bataan, and Zambales were disrupted by bomb threats sent via email and text messaging. The threats, reportedly carried out by an individual claiming to be a Japanese lawyer named Takahiro Karasawa, caused at least seven government offices and two schools to undergo precautionary measures.
The affected government offices included the National Housing Authority, the Commission on Audit, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippine Competition Commission, Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM), the Department of Science and Technology in Bicutan, Taguig, and the Insurance Commission in Ermita, Manila. Additionally, Panghulo Elementary School in Malabon and Pasig Elementary School in Barangay San Nicolas received bomb threats.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) public information office chief, Col. Jean Fajardo, confirmed that the suspect, who identified themselves as Takahiro Karasawa, had used the same email to send bomb threat messages in the past. The PNP, in coordination with international agencies, is actively working to track down the suspect. While one email’s origin was traced, the individual involved denied sending the bomb threats, claiming their email had been hacked or their identity assumed.
PNP Chief Benjamin Acorda Jr. emphasized the importance of taking bomb threats seriously and stated that appropriate measures were being taken to respond to the threats. He suggested that the motive behind the threats could be personal gain, as they caused unnecessary disturbances and led to the suspension of classes in some schools.
To enhance their response capabilities, the PNP received a donation of six Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) robots worth P45 million from the US embassy. Acorda highlighted the significance of this donation, as the robots would reduce the risks faced by personnel when responding to bomb threats and handling suspicious packages.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the matter. The Department of Justice (DOJ) stated that the bomb threats were sent from an unverified email account supposedly belonging to Takahiro Karasawa, who claimed to be a highly knowledgeable bomb-maker from the “Steadiness Law Office.” The DOJ emphasized that pranks and spreading fear among the people would not be tolerated, and those responsible would be pursued under the full extent of the law.
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) is also conducting an investigation into the source of the bomb threats. Multiple emails sent to various individuals have been recovered, and efforts are underway to request the Japanese government’s assistance in thoroughly investigating and identifying the sender. The CICC assured the public that there was no cause for alarm, as the sender and email were deemed to be a hoax.
As a precautionary measure, the affected government agencies were advised to practice their emergency evacuation procedures to enhance agency preparedness.
