The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday, Jan. 13, firmly denied speculation of internal rifts following reports that a Philippine Army officer had allegedly withdrawn his support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla underscored that the military remains “united and professional,” emphasizing that there are no cracks within the organization even as it investigates the case involving Colonel Audie Mongao.
“First of all, we continue to assure the public that there is no division within the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Our troops, the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines, are intact. We remain professional and we remain united,” she said.
Padilla said Mongao’s case is still under inquiry as she stressed it is too early to talk about possible charges.
“With the case of Colonel Audie Mongao, it is currently under investigation and the inquiry is ongoing as of this time. Because of that, it is premature to state any specific charges that will be filed,” she said.
Earlier, the Philippine Army (PA) said Mongao may face administrative charges for violation of Articles of War, Article 96 or Conduct Unbecoming an Officer and Gentleman, which carries a penalty of dismissal from service upon conviction.
Padilla assured the public that due process would be observed in the investigation on Mongao’s case.
“Definitely, the investigation will ensue and we are assuring the public that due process will be accorded to the party. The Armed Forces of the Philippines will conduct this in relation to existing rules and policies that are in place,” Padilla said.
Asked how the AFP balances discipline with emotional support for Mongao, Padilla said commanders on the ground are trusted to handle the matter.
“This is a skill that each leader possesses. We trust our commanders on the ground to be able to perform their mandates accordingly since this is an administrative case,” she said.
Padilla also dismissed calls for loyalty checks despite Mongao being described as a respected officer.
“There are no loyalty checks to be conducted. We know our leaders. We know how they conduct their leadership. There is respect for our higher authorities, and each individual soldier will adhere to the chain of command,” she said.
Mongao was relieved from his post as commander of the Training Support Group under the PA’s Training Command (Tracom) last week after he allegedly posted on his social media his withdrawal of support from Marcos, the military’s Commander-in-Chief.
“What we can assure the public is that we will leave no stone unturned,” Padilla assured the public. (Martin Sadongdong)
