PASAY CITY, April 27, 2026 – Five unexploded World War II-era bombs were safely recovered at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Complex, ensuring the safety of ongoing construction activities and the public.
Discovery During Construction
The discovery occurred at the Taxiway Juliet Extension, where a backhoe operator unearthed a suspicious object during excavation work. The operator immediately reported the find to the NNIC Airside Security Operations, initiating a swift response from authorities.
According to a statement from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Aviation Security Group, the report was relayed to the General Aviation Police Station, which coordinated with the Aviation Security Unit (AVSECU) to verify and address the situation.
Expert Response and Recovery
Specialists from the AVSECU NCR Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team were dispatched to the site to conduct a detailed threat assessment. Following strict safety protocols, the team successfully retrieved five pieces of unexploded ordnance (UXO):
- Four 25-pound general-purpose bombs
- One 203mm projectile
The recovered items, described as inert and heavily corroded, were transported to the AVSECU Headquarters for proper safekeeping and disposal.
Ensuring Public Safety
Authorities assured the public that the operation posed no threat to airport operations or public safety. The swift and coordinated efforts of the involved agencies underscored their commitment to maintaining security in critical infrastructure areas.
PNP AVSEGROUP Director, PBGEN Dionisio B. Bartolome Jr., emphasized the importance of vigilance in such operations, stating, “This operation highlights our vigilance and coordination in ensuring that potential hazards, no matter how deeply buried, are swiftly addressed to protect lives and critical infrastructure.”
A Reminder of History
The discovery of these WWII-era bombs serves as a stark reminder of the remnants of war that still lie hidden beneath the surface. It also highlights the importance of safety measures and preparedness in construction projects, particularly in historically significant areas like the NAIA Complex.
Authorities continue to monitor the area to ensure no further threats remain, reassuring the public of their commitment to safety and security.
According to a post by PNP Aviation Security Group in Facebook.