Manila, Dec. 16 -- The National Security Council (NSC) is currently looking into reports that the father and son behind Australia's deadliest mass shooting traveled to the Philippines a month before the attack.

"The National Security Council is aware of reports that the individuals involved in the Bondi Beach shooting in Australia had previously traveled to the Philippines, and these reports are currently being validated," Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing.

Castro issued the statement following reports that father-son gunmen Sajid and Naveed Akram underwent "military-style" training in the Philippines a month before attacking a Hanukkah event at Sydney's Bondi Beach.

At least 16 people have died, and 40 remain...