The Philippines and Australia reaffirmed close cooperation on security and law enforcement following the deadly mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, as Philippine authorities confirmed that the two suspected gunmen had traveled to the country weeks before the attack.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said she spoke by phone with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Tuesday, December 16, to express condolences and stress continued bilateral coordination.
“I spoke with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong by phone today to convey my sincere condolences on the Bondi Beach tragedy,” Lazaro said in a statement posted online.
“The Philippines stands firmly in solidarity with Australia and underscores strong Philippine–Australian cooperation in security and law enforcement matters.”
Lazaro added that both governments reaffirmed their commitment to protecting communities from “intolerance, hatred, and violence.”
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed that the two suspects, identified as father and son Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram, entered the Philippines from Sydney on November 1.
“Both reported Davao as their final destination,” the BI said. “They left the country on Nov. 28, 2025, on a connecting flight from Davao to Manila, with Sydney as their final destination.”
Philippine authorities said the purpose of the suspects’ visit remains unclear and is now under investigation by Australian officials.