LOOK: Bomb threat disrupts operations at mall in Cebu IT Park

MANDAUE CITY, CEBU – Local authorities conducted a sweep of a mall at the Cebu IT Park following a report that a bomb had been planted inside the premises on Friday afternoon, July 3.

The Philippine National Police’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine (EOD K9) Unit led the search operation, while the Cebu City Police Office’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team secured the area.

“A comprehensive and systematic inspection of the entire establishment was conducted, which yielded negative results for any explosive device or hazardous material,” CCPO said in a report.

READ: Cebu City bomb threat: Responders swoop in on uptown mall

Mayor Nestor Archival, chairman of the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, declared the mall “all clear” at 7:49 p.m., about four hours after the bomb threat was reported.

Following the declaration, employees and tenants were allowed to return to the mall, and normal operations resumed.

READ: Cebu City school shooting threat: What we know so far

Authorities continue to investigate the bomb hoax as of this writing.

Meanwhile, the CCPO appealed to the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious individuals, unattended items, or unusual activities to the nearest police station or through the CCPO hotline.

READ: PNP warns of rise in school threats, urges public to verify reports

“Public vigilance, coupled with strong inter-agency coordination, remains essential in ensuring the safety and security of all Cebuanos,” the CCPO said.

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