Bomb threat forces class suspension in UP Baguio

STUDENTS march out of the University of the Philippines Baguio on Aug. 27, after a university official received a bomb threat in a text message. EV ESPIRITU/INQUIRER NORTHERN LUZON

BAGUIO CITY—The University of the Philippines Baguio suspended classes on Wednesday after a university official received a bomb threat sent by text message.

Reached by telephone, Dr. Wilfredo Alangui, UP Baguio vice chancellor for academic affairs, said he received the message while he was traveling for an official business.

Alangui said he sent the message immediately to UP Baguio Chancellor Raymundo Rovillos at 8:55 a.m. and to another official.

Rovillos ordered all students, faculty and personnel, including canteen concessionaires, to vacate the campus at 9 a.m. after consulting the deans of different colleges.

At least 1,000 students, faculty members and personnel gathered in two evacuation sites—the Oblation grounds near the campus’ main entrance and the Japanese Garden on Gov. Pack Road.

The students were allowed to go home at 9:30 a.m. but school officials advised faculty members and staff to stay behind until the police completed security checks. Jhoanna Marie Buenaobra, Inquirer Northern Luzon