Iloilo City Mayor Issues Strong Statement Following Bomb Threat Arrest
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas has released a forceful statement on March 26, 2026, in response to the arrest of an individual responsible for a bomb threat at Ramon Avanceña National High School in Barangay Arevalo, Iloilo City. The mayor condemned the incident as a serious threat to public safety and warned that such irresponsible acts will not be tolerated in the community.
Arrest Details and Official Response
Mayor Treñas confirmed that she was informed by Police Colonel Wilbert Parilla, the officer-in-charge of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), about the successful apprehension of the suspect. She emphasized the city government's unwavering stance against any actions that disrupt peace and order, stating that there is absolutely no room in Iloilo City for malicious behavior that endangers lives.
"Let me be clear that bomb jokes are not jokes—they bring fear, disrupt public order, and put lives at risk," Treñas declared, highlighting the severe consequences of such threats. She underscored that authorities will strictly enforce the law against anyone involved in bomb threats or similar disruptive activities, ensuring that violators face accountability for their actions.
Call for Public Responsibility
In her address, Mayor Treñas also issued a direct appeal to all residents of Iloilo City, urging them to act responsibly both offline and online. She stressed the importance of using social media and other platforms wisely, cautioning that careless statements and actions can lead to serious repercussions for the community.
"I call on all Ilonggos to be responsible—both offline and online. Let's use our platforms correctly and be mindful of the impact of our words and actions," she said, reinforcing the need for collective vigilance in maintaining a safe environment.
Continued Safety Efforts and Collaboration
Treñas assured the public that the city government, in close coordination with the ICPO and the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit, remains committed to ensuring safety and upholding the law. She pledged ongoing efforts to maintain peace and order in Iloilo City, with a firm promise to hold any lawbreakers accountable.
The mayor concluded by encouraging Ilonggos to work together towards a more peaceful and secure city, emphasizing community cooperation as essential for public safety. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for vigilance and responsible behavior in safeguarding educational institutions and public spaces from threats.
