Metro Manila, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday urged restraint and accuracy in media reporting following local and foreign reports that referenced the Philippines in connection with the recent incident at Bondi Beach in Australia.
In a statement, the DFA said it has taken note of the reports but emphasized the need to allow competent authorities to complete their investigations before drawing conclusions or making characterizations that could mislead the public.
“The department underscores the importance of allowing competent authorities to complete their investigations and of exercising care against misleading characterizations, especially of the security situation in the Philippines, while facts are still being established,” the DFA said.
It said the government is closely coordinating with Australia to verify information related to the shooting.
It also called on media organizations to ensure accuracy, balance, and proper context in reporting, warning against sweeping generalizations and speculation that could spread misinformation or inflame prejudice.
“The Philippine government has made significant strides in improving the domestic security situation in order to promote and sustain peace and order, and socio-economic development around the country,” the DFA said.
The statement follows earlier remarks from Malacañang rejecting claims that the Philippines is a training hotspot for Islamic State-linked groups. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., through officials of the National Security Council, said there is no evidence linking the country to the Sydney incident or to any terrorist training involving the suspects.
