Remain apolitical, Army personnel told

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January 12, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Army (PA) yesterday reminded its personnel to leave political issues to politicians following the relief of an Army officer for allegedly withdrawing his support from President Marcos.

“We are a professional organization and we don’t get involved in these political issues because we are non-partisan. Let’s leave these to the politicians,” PA spokesman Col. Louie Dema-ala said on radio dzRH.

“What’s more important to us now is our transition. We are facing greater challenges, particularly with our regional security… we assure (the public) that the Philippine Army is intact,” he added.

Dema-ala said the case of Col. Audie Mongao, who surrendered to the military on Friday, is considered isolated.

“We have information on why he did this, but we cannot divulge yet,” Dema-ala said.

Troop information and education in the Army, he said, continue to combat misinformation and disinformation.

“Definitely, he has violated regulations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Definitely, there are corresponding charges depending on the results of the investigation,” Dema-ala said.

Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete relieved Mongao from his post as commander of the Training Support Group under the Army’s Training Command on Friday.

Mongao’s online post can no longer be accessed.