Army relieves official amid alleged withdrawal of support

The Philippine Army has relieved an official from his post while investigating allegations that he has withdrawn his support from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala said Friday.

This comes amid a statement circulating on social media that Colonel Audie Mongao has withdrawn his support from the President.

“By the direction of the Commanding General, PA, Col. Mongao was immediately relieved from post and put into A/U status to give way for a thorough investigation by Training Command,” Dema-ala said.

He said they are also investigating whether it was Mongao himself who posted the alleged withdrawal of his support. 

Meanwhile, in a Facebook post, Major General Michael Logico, commander of the Training Command, said Mongao, who is on New Year’s break, has been relieved Thursday night as commander of the Training Support Group.

He said that his command exerted efforts to reach out to Mongao amid the allegations but have been unable to reach him.

"Investigation is underway to determine possible administrative and legal charges that may be imposed upon him in relation to his online statement," Logico said.

Despite this, he said that the Army is still trying to reach Mongao to offer “emotional support,” adding that Mongao remains his responsibility.

Logico reaffirmed the Philippine Army's support for the Constitution and the chain of command.

“The Philippine Army remains professional and steadfast behind our mandate, loyal to the Constitution and the chain of command,” he said on a Facebook post.

On the other hand, United People's Initiative, a group calling for the resignation of President Marcos, expressed support for Mongao. 

"His words were not rebellion. They were fidelity to the Constitution. In reaffirming his loyalty to the AFP and the State—while withdrawing personal support from President Marcos Jr.—Colonel Mongao reminded the nation of a truth too many fear to say: moral ascendancy matters; leadership is not inherited—it is earned daily; the Armed Forces serve the people, not personalities," the group said in a statement.

It added Mongao chose to speak—"not for himself, but for the Filipino people worth fighting for." —AOL, GMA Integrated News