MANILA, Philippines — A senior Philippine Army officer has been relieved of his command and placed under investigation after openly stating that he was withdrawing his personal support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.—a rare and politically charged act within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
What Happened
On January 8, 2026, an online post attributed to Colonel Audie A. Mongao, a commander in the Army’s Training Support Group with over three decades of service, circulated on social media. In it, Mongao reportedly said he was no longer personally supporting President Marcos and argued that the Filipino people were “worth fighting for.”
Military Response
By January 9, Army leadership swiftly relieved Mongao of his post and placed him in “attached/unassigned” status pending a formal investigation. The move was ordered by the Philippine Army Commanding General, and Mongao’s case is now being reviewed for possible administrative and legal charges, including violations of military regulations.
Army officials have also made efforts to contact Mongao directly and offer support as the review continues, emphasizing that he remains under their responsibility despite being stood down.
AFP Discipline and Neutrality
The incident has prompted calls from civil society and military observers for the AFP to maintain discipline and stay apolitical and non partisan, in line with its constitutional mandate.
AFP leadership has repeatedly stressed that the Armed Forces’ loyalty is to the Philippine Constitution and the chain of command, and that public expressions of political views by active officers can undermine that professional obligation.
Government Position
Malacañang has urged that due process be observed as the case unfolds, with Presidential Communications officials saying that any determination of accountability must be anchored in law and evidence.
Political Context
The episode comes amid broader public discourse around alleged corruption within the Marcos administration, including a high profile scandal involving flood control projects that has fueled criticism and unrest. Calls—mainly from retired military figures and civil society groups—for the AFP to withdraw its support for the President have surfaced previously, though active duty forces have publicly reaffirmed their loyalty to democratic norms and civilian leadership.