The Philippine government has dismissed international media reports portraying Mindanao as a hotspot for violent extremism, calling such claims “outdated and misleading,” as authorities confirmed an ongoing investigation into the recent travel of two individuals linked to the Bondi shooting incident in Sydney, Australia.

In a statement issued Wednesday, National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo M. Año said Philippine authorities are coordinating closely with Australian counterparts to determine the purpose of the visit of Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed, who transited through Manila and traveled to Davao City from 1 to 28 November 2025.

According to the National Security Council (NSC), Sajid Akram entered the Philippines using an Indian passport, while his son traveled on an Australian passport. Año stressed that there is no confirmation or evidence that the two received any form of military or terrorist training while in the country.

“A mere visit does not support allegations of terrorist training, and the duration of their stay would not have allowed for any meaningful or structured training,” Año said.

He strongly rejected renewed narratives linking Mindanao to Islamic State ideology, citing significant security gains since the 2017 Marawi siege.

“Media reports describing Mindanao as a hotspot for violent extremism or Islamic State ideology are outdated and misleading. Since the 2017 Marawi Siege, Philippine security forces have significantly degraded ISIS-affiliated groups in the country,” Año said.

He added that extremist groups have been fragmented, deprived of leadership, and rendered operationally ineffective.

“The loss of senior figures has weakened organizational structures and diminished the ability of these groups to plan, direct, and sustain operations,” Año said, noting a sharp decline in manpower, weapons, influence, and violent incidents.

Authorities reported that there have been no recorded terrorist training activities or significant ISIS-linked operations in the country since 2017.

Año also cited assessments from the United Nations and the United States government indicating that only remnants of extremist groups remain due to sustained security operations, peace-building initiatives, and strong community engagement.

He highlighted the role of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, where political autonomy and development funding have contributed to improved security conditions and long-term stability.

“These developments reflect the sustained efforts of our security forces and the resilience of our communities in advancing peace, order, and development in Mindanao,” Año said.

The NSC reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a vigilant, intelligence-driven counterterrorism program and close cooperation with international partners to prevent the use of Philippine territory for terrorist purposes.

Año also urged the media to practice evidence-based reporting and responsible public discourse, reiterating the Philippines’ commitment to regional and global security.

“We stand ready to support Australia and the international community in addressing terrorism in all its forms,” he said.