MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it has taken note of recent local and foreign media reports referring to the Philippines’ connection with the Bondi Beach incident in Sydney, urging caution while investigations are still ongoing.

In a statement, the DFA underscored the importance of allowing competent authorities to complete their investigations and of exercising care against misleading characterizations, particularly of the security situation in the Philippines, while facts are still being established.

The department said the Philippine government is in close coordination with Australian authorities through existing bilateral mechanisms to verify information related to the matter, in line with established security and law enforcement cooperation.

The DFA also called on media organizations to ensure accuracy, balance, and context in their reporting, and to avoid sweeping generalizations and the amplification of speculation that may spread misinformation or inflame prejudice.

It added that the Philippine government has made significant strides in improving the domestic security situation to promote and sustain peace and order, as well as socio-economic development across the country.

The DFA reiterated that the Philippines remains committed to contributing to regional and international efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism, including through sustained information sharing, law enforcement collaboration, and border security cooperation with Australia and other partner countries.