Police Enhance Cybersecurity Measures Following Bomb Threats at Two Negros Occidental Universities

The Police Regional Office - Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has intensified its cyber-monitoring and digital forensics efforts in response to bomb threats targeting two state universities located in southern Negros Occidental.

On the evening of November 19, the police received bomb threat alerts sent via Messenger accounts associated with Western Visayas State University in Himamaylan City and Central Philippines State University in Kabankalan City.

Following swift action by explosive ordnance disposal teams and local law enforcement, both campuses were declared secure shortly after midnight.

According to PRO-NIR, the threats referenced allegations of "unfair treatment of faculty and staff to students." Investigations identified the account owner, who insisted that her account had been compromised.

In light of these events, PRO-NIR has ramped up cooperation with the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) and specialists in information and communications technology (ICT).

Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR Director, stated, "We are collaborating closely with cybercrime investigators and ICT experts to trace the origins of these threats and ensure accountability for those responsible." He added, "This partnership enables us to conduct real-time digital surveillance and rapid tracking of online bomb threats."

The investigative process includes comprehensive technical support for analyzing digital footprints, metadata, and communication patterns, supported by ongoing intelligence sharing among law enforcement, local government agencies, and ICT professionals.

Brig. Gen. Ibay called on the public to stay calm and vigilant, emphasizing that false bomb threats create unnecessary alarm and carry severe legal repercussions. "PRO-NIR is committed to pursuing individuals who use digital platforms to incite fear."