DFA welcomes Australia’s mutual counter-terrorism remarks as Bondi Beach probe ensues

Philippine Canadian Inquirer
January 9, 2026

(File Photo | Wikimedia Commons)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine and the Australian governments have affirmed their shared counter-insurgency commitment following the two countries’ ongoing cooperative probe into the Bondi Beach shooting in December 2025.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) showed its appreciation on Tuesday to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett, after the two leaders mentioned in a press conference in late December the Marcos administration’s strong commitment to the investigation.

“I also want to take the opportunity to thank… President Marcos, my friend, the President of the Philippines as well. Through him, the agencies in the Philippines have done everything they can to provide information in a timely way, and that’s a good thing,” said Albanese.

The DFA noted in a statement that the initial assessment of the Philippine National Police (PNP) shared with the Australian police found “no evidence” suggesting the father-son gunmen received any training in the southern province of Davao during their stay from Nov. 1 to Nov. 29, 2025.

“There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell or were directed by others to carry out an attack,” Barrett said, noting that the initial finding remains a subject as the investigation ensues.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro assured the public that the Philippines is steadfast in its counter-terrorism commitment in close cooperation with both the Australian government and foreign law enforcement bodies, as the investigation into the shooting progresses.

“The Philippines and Australia will continue to jointly address transnational security threats, including terrorism, through sustained information sharing, operational coordination, and capacity-building initiatives,” Lazaro said.