Thu Dec 18 03:45:45 UTC 2025: News Article:

Philippines Denies Terror Training Link in Bondi Beach Attack, Australia Tightens Hate Speech Laws

Manila, Philippines – Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano has refuted claims that the suspects in the recent Bondi Beach attack in Sydney received terrorist training in the Philippines. This denial comes as Australia announces plans to introduce stricter hate speech laws in the wake of the tragedy.

According to Ano, Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed Akram, were in the Philippines from November 1 to 28, 2023, traveling to Davao City in Mindanao. Sajid Akram entered the country on an Indian passport, while Naveed used an Australian passport.

“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,” Ano stated. He further mentioned that the pair spent most of their time in their hotel room in Davao.

Ano also addressed concerns about Mindanao being a hotspot for violent extremism, saying such reports are “outdated and misleading.” He emphasized that Philippine security forces have significantly weakened ISIS-affiliated groups in the region since the 2017 Marawi Siege.

Meanwhile, in Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged to introduce new legislation cracking down on hate speech. This move follows the Bondi Beach attack and a rise in anti-Semitism since the October 7 attacks on Israel and the subsequent conflict in Gaza.

The proposed legislation aims to make it easier to charge individuals promoting hate speech and violence, including religious preachers. It also seeks to create powers to cancel or reject visas of those who spread “hate and division” and target organizations whose leaders engage in hate speech.

“It was an attack on our Jewish community – but it was also an attack on the Australian way of life,” Albanese stated. “It is clear we need to do more to combat this evil scourge, much more.”

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has also announced that the state parliament will reconvene next week to pass urgent reforms on gun laws.

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