Charges vs Mongao? AFP says it's premature

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Tuesday that it is premature to discuss possible charges against Colonel Audie Mongao, who allegedly withdrew support from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. 

At a press briefing, AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla said the investigation into his case is still ongoing.

“With the case of Colonel Audie Mongao, it is currently under investigation. The inquiry is ongoing as of this time and because of that it is premature to state any specific charges that will be filed as of now,” Padilla said.

“But definitely, the investigation will ensue and we are assuring the public that due process will be accorded to the party and the AFP will conduct this in relation to existing rules and policies that are in place,” she added.

A statement has been circulating on social media that Mongao has withdrawn his support from the President.

The Philippine Army earlier said that Mongao has been relieved from his post.

Commander of the Training Command, Major General Michael Logico said that Mongao has been relieved as commander of the Training Support Group.

Mongao has since gone back to the fold of the military, Logico said.

"As of 1930 tonight (Friday), Colonel Mongao voluntarily submitted himself back to military control. We had a long talk, and he is fully cooperating with our investigation," he earlier said.

Asked about the current status of Mongao, Padilla said he was relieved from his post but under the supervision of his ground commander.

Meanwhile, the United People's Initiative, a group calling for the resignation of President Marcos, had 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. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News