Peace adviser rejects ‘unjust’ insinuations against Mindanao after Bondi tragedy

Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. on Monday strongly rejected what he described as unjust and misleading insinuations branding Mindanao as a “terror hotspot” following reports linking the Bondi tragedy in Australia to the alleged travel history of the perpetrators.

In a statement, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) extended its deepest sympathies to the families of the victims of the “horrific violence” in Bondi and expressed solidarity with the Australian people.

“We stand in solidarity with the Australian people, calling for global healing and a renewed commitment to the sanctity of human life,” Galvez said.

However, Galvez said OPAPRU “firmly rejects” claims associating Mindanao with terrorism, stressing that such assertions are unvalidated by intelligence and unfair to the people of the region.

“These claims are not only unvalidated by intelligence, but it is also deeply unjust to the peace-loving people of Mindanao,” he said, adding that the narratives ignore “monumental strides” made in transforming the region from conflict to peace and development.

Galvez cited President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s earlier remarks rejecting “in the strongest terms the recent misleading claims that portray our country as a training hotspot for terrorism.” 

The President made the statement during the 90th founding anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, emphasizing the government’s sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and secure communities.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año also dismissed the allegations, saying that “a mere visit does not support allegations of terrorist training,” and noting that the reported duration of stay “would not have allowed for any meaningful or structured training.”

According to Galvez, Mindanao’s current identity is shaped by the successful implementation of peace agreements, the reintegration of former combatants, and the gains of the Bangsamoro peace process, which he said has helped transform the region into a hub of stability and economic growth.

“We call upon the international media to exercise discernment and responsibility,” Galvez said. 

“Branding an entire region based on the transient movements of individuals creates dangerous generalizations that unfairly stigmatize a population that has sacrificed so much for stability,” he further stressed.

Galvez warned against allowing unverified reporting to undermine hard-won peace gains or sow division, urging stakeholders to focus instead on healing, reconciliation, and building a shared future grounded in truth and respect for human dignity.