Army colonel who withdrew PBBM support to face court martial

Relieved Philippine Army (PA) Col. Audie Mongao, who withdrew his “personal support” for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in a social media post, will face general court martial proceedings.

PA Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete confirmed Monday, 16 February 2026, at the Army Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, that preparations for the proceedings are underway following the investigation into Mongao’s controversial online statement.

“Right now, tapos na ang investigation sa kanya. He is already here for general court martial (GCM). We are preparing for it,” Nafarrete said.

Mongao was relieved from his post last month and placed under attached/unassigned status after a screenshot circulated showing his message withdrawing support for Marcos Jr.: “Sobra na, tama na! The Filipino people is worth fighting for. Mabuhay!”

Nafarrete said the investigation phase has concluded and the case has moved to formal military judicial proceedings, though the composition of the court martial panel is still being finalized.

“May meeting pa ang composition. Malapit na (trial),” he added.

The charge against Mongao falls under Article of War 63, which pertains to disrespect toward the President as Commander-in-Chief.

Nafarrete emphasized the Army’s adherence to standards and discipline, debunking claims that Mongao was silenced. “Those are speculations na pinapatahimik natin ang mga personnel. We have standards as part of the military organization,” he said, adding that the proceedings will follow established military legal procedures, fully observing due process.