An Australian national was arrested for cracking a bomb joke at the Dipolog Airport in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte.

The incident happened when the 69-year-old man was checking in for his flight on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

When he was asked by a Passenger Service Agent (PSA) if his bag contained electronic devices, he allegedly said “no, just an atomic bomb.”

While he took his statement back, saying “it was a joke,” upon seeing the agent’s reaction, the agent still reported him to the Dipolog Airport Police Station.

Authorities arrested the man, albeit no bomb was found in his bag.

He is facing charges for violation of the Anti-Bomb Joke Law.

“Public safety is our top priority, and we take bomb jokes seriously. Making bomb jokes in public places like airports is irresponsible and illegal under PD1727. Violators will be arrested and prosecuted. We urged everyone to be mindful of their words and actions to ensure public safety,” PNP Aviation Security Group Director, Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano, said.