Joint Efforts: NPC and NBI Collaborate to Apprehend Bomb Threat Suspect
Today, May 19, 2023, the National Privacy Commission (NPC) visited the National Bureau of
Investigation (NBI) to discuss the recent arrest of the suspect involved in the bomb threat incident
targeting the NPC office.
The suspect persisted in posting bomb threats, continuously messaging the NPC until Monday, May
15, 2023, which prompted the Commission to file a formal complaint. With the invaluable assistance
from the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), the Philippine National Police
(PNP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the suspect was apprehended on May 17,
2023.
The quick response to the bomb threat targeting the NPC was led by NBI's Cybercrime Division,
headed by Atty. Jeremy Lotoc. Upon receiving the information, the Cybercrime Division initiated
an immediate investigation, diligently tracing the suspect's digital footprint. Through a collaborative
effort between the NBI and local police, the suspect was successfully apprehended in Aklan.
Privacy Commissioner John Henry D. Naga stated, "We believe in upholding accountability for
actions that disrupt public safety and instill fear among individuals. Rest assured, the NPC remains
unwavering in its commitment to protecting the privacy rights of Filipinos. We reiterate that
incidents such as these will not deter us from fulfilling our responsibilities."
He is undergoing inquest proceedings before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Pasay. The charges
were formally filed on May 16, 2023, against the suspect who is facing multiple violations. These
include Grave Threats under Art. 282 of the Revised Penal Code in relation to Cybercrime
Prevention Act of 2012 and P.D. 1727 in relation to Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Commissioner Naga assured the public that the NPC is working closely with the authorities to
support their investigations and provide any necessary assistance. The Commission will fully
cooperate to ensure an effective and efficient legal process.
The NPC extends its gratitude to the law enforcement agencies for their swift action in apprehending
the individual responsible for this alarming incident. "We are thankful for their vigilance and
commitment to ensuring the well-being of our community. The NPC applauds the NBI’s determined
pursuit and apprehension of cybercriminals without hesitation in its mission to combat cyber threats
and ensure the safety and security of individuals in the digital realm. We also appreciate the
understanding and support of the public during this challenging period. Their tireless efforts and
dedication to public safety are highly commendable," Naga said.
"As an organization dedicated to safeguarding privacy rights, we urge the public to exercise caution
and responsibility when using social media platforms, emphasizing the importance of engaging in
respectful and lawful online discourse. Let us collectively work towards a safe and inclusive digital
space that fosters understanding, dialogue, and the protection of privacy rights," he added.
On May 12, 2023, the NPC received bomb threat through posted comment by the suspect in the
NPC’s official Facebook account, prompting Commissioner Naga to immediately activate NPC’s
emergency protocols and the evacuation of NPC personnel to designated evacuation site within
PICC Complex and the temporary suspension of NPC office operations.
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