Manila: Philippine Army (PA) chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete ordered the immediate relief of a senior officer who allegedly withdrew his "personal support" for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. through a social media post.

According to Philippines News Agency, Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala informed reporters that Col. Audie Mongao was immediately relieved from his post and placed into attached/unassigned status to allow a thorough investigation by the Training Command, PA. Mongao reportedly withdrew his "personal support" for President Marcos effective January 9, without providing a specific reason for his action, but noted that "the Filipino people is worth fighting for."

In a Facebook post, Training Command head Maj. Gen. Michael Logico confirmed that Mongao is assigned to his unit and is currently on "New Year's Break status." Logico stated that his command has made efforts to reach out to Mongao, but has been unsuccessful so far. Consequently, Mongao was relieved from his post as Commander of the Training Support Group and is now attached to the unassigned Office of the Commander Training Command. An investigation is underway to determine possible administrative and legal charges that may be imposed on him in relation to his online statement.

Despite these developments, Logico emphasized that efforts are still being made to reach out to Mongao to extend emotional support. "He is still my responsibility. The PA remains professional and steadfast behind our mandate, loyal to the Constitution and the chain of command," Logico added.