(UPDATE) MANILA, Philippines — The security threat at the Mall of Asia branch of the National University (NU) on Thursday turned out to be a hoax, police and school authorities said.
No suspicious activity that could be associated with the supposed bomb threat was found, the Southern Police District (SPD) said in a statement after bringing in the PNP MOA Sub-station 10 Explosive Ordinance K9 Unit, Pasay Investigation Division, and Pasay Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). It said,, however, that an investigation into the source and circumstances surrounding the bomb threat was ongoing.
"Based on the assessment of the authorities, the reported threat was determined to be a hoax, and no explosive or hazardous materials were found within the campus premises," the school said in a separate statement.
In response to the threat, the university suspended the morning's face-to-face classes but allowed the resumption of afternoon classes with the assurance that the safety and security of "students, faculty, employees, parents, and the entire NU community remain our highest priority."
"The university will continue to work closely with the appropriate authorities and maintain heightened safety and security measures across the campus," it added.
The school called on the public to remain calm and refrain from sharing or circulating unverified information.
"Any legitimate updates or advisories will be communicated through the University’s official channels," the school stated.
"Furthermore, as part of the university’s continuing efforts to ensure the safety and security of the NU community, a cyber investigation is underway in coordination with the appropriate offices to trace and verify the source of the threat," it added.
The SPD assured the public that appropriate security measures remained in place and the law enforcement authorities were closely coordinating with the school administration and concerned agencies to maintain a safe and secure environment.
The SPD likewise reminded the public to remain calm and vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activity or information to the nearest police station or proper authorities.
