Manila: The public is advised to 'exercise care against misleading characterizations' of the security situation in the Philippines while facts related to the Bondi Beach shooters' visit to the country are still being established.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a statement Tuesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Australia and the Philippines are in close coordination to verify information related to the matter. The DFA urged media organizations to ensure accuracy, balance, and context in their reporting, avoiding sweeping generalizations and speculation that may spread misinformation or inflame prejudice. The statement highlighted the presence of local and media reports linking the Philippines to the incident.

The DFA emphasized the significant strides made by the Philippine government to improve the domestic security situation, aiming to promote and sustain peace, order, and socio-economic development across the country. The government reiterated its commitment to contributing to regional and international efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism.

These efforts include sustained information sharing, law enforcement collaboration, and border security cooperation with Australia and other partner countries. The gunmen Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram were earlier confirmed to have traveled to Davao City. However, the Armed Forces of the Philippines stated there is no indication that they underwent training there or that foreign terrorist activities took place in the area.