Malacañang has urged due process for a Philippine Army official who was relieved from his post for allegedly withdrawing support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro made the remark Friday amid the Philippine Army’s investigation of Colonel Audie Mongao over his reported withdrawal of support.
Castro assured that the President was keeping tabs over the developments of the case.
“Nakikinig at nagmamatyag ang Pangulo. Kung sinoman ang may dapat na may pabanagutan, ebidensya ang gamitin. Due process ang pairalin at ang kung ano ang sinasabi ng batas iyon ang ipapatupad,” Castro said.
(The President is listening and watching. Regardless of the personalities involved, due process should be observed. What the law says should be followed.)
A statement has made rounds on social media about Mongao’s alleged withdrawal.
The Philippine Army has said it relieved Mongao from his post as commander of the Training Support Group as of Thursday night.
In a Facebook post Friday evening, Training Command chief Major General Michael Logico said Mongao was back in the fold of the military.
“As of 1930 tonight (Friday), Col Mongao voluntarily submitted himself back to military control. We had a long talk, and he is fully cooperating with our investigation,” he said.
Logico has reaffirmed the Philippine Army’s support for the Constitution and the chain of command.
He said an investigation was already underway to check on Mongao, and that administrative and legal charges may be slapped against the latter over the matter.
“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.
The United People’s Initiative, which had been calling for Marcos resignation, has supported Mongao, lauding him for expressing commitment to “serve the people, not personalities.” — VDV, GMA Integrated News
