• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Classes at all levels today, July 7, in Silliman University (SU) in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental will be held online, either synchronously or asynchronously, following the bomb threat that disrupted operations July 6.
In an advisory posted at 8:55 last night, the university said that its Campus Security and Safety Office, in coordination with the Philippine National Police, continues to conduct security inspections of school premises to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the SU community.
“Classes at all levels on July 7 shall be conducted either synchronously or asynchronously, at the discretion of the respective instructors,” it added.
An email from “Tenna Tenna” to the SU Information and Communications Technology Division claimed that s/he has planted six bombs around the university grounds, and urged for the immediate evacuation of students.
Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) director, Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño, said they have mobilized all necessary personnel and resources to ensure that standard security protocols are thoroughly carried out.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel and coordinated specialized K9 teams have been deployed, with clearing operations around the university premises and targeted road closures to secure the perimeter.
“The safety and security of our students, educators, and the public remain our highest priority,” Cardiño stressed.
He added that they are working closely with partner-agencies to ensure that all standard security protocols are thoroughly carried out. “We appeal to everyone to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and rely only on verified information from official government sources. Let us avoid spreading unverified reports that may unnecessarily create fear and confusion while security operations are ongoing.”
As of press time, inspection and clearing procedures within the university premises were ongoing, and authorities have committed to providing timely updates.
“We strongly urge the SU community to rely only on the University’s official communication channels for verified announcements and updates. Information shared through unofficial sources may be inaccurate or misleading, and can cause unnecessary confusion and alarm,” the university said.
Authorities warned the public that false bomb threats or deliberately spreading misinformation is a criminal offense punishable under Presidential Decree 1727. This law declares as unlawful the malicious dissemination of false information, or the willful making of any threat concerning bombs, explosives, or any similar device or means of destruction, with penalties imposed on violators. | TMD
