Malacañang said it will not intervene in the case of Army Col. Audie Mongao and will allow the proper authorities to act following his voluntary surrender.

In her press briefing on Monday, Jan. 12, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Marcos is closely monitoring developments but will defer to established processes.

“Ang Pangulo naman po, hahayaan na lang po niya ang awtoridad, ang tamang ahensiya na siyang kumilos kung anong nararapat dito (The President will let the authorities and the proper agency act on what is appropriate),” she said.

Asked whether the Palace would push for sanctions following Mongao’s surrender, the Palace Press Officer said any penalties would be determined by the appropriate authorities.

“Hahayaan po natin ang tamang ahensiya kung magpapataw sila ng mga penalties or sanctions laban dito kay Col. Mongao (We will let the proper agency decide if penalties or sanctions will be imposed against Col. Mongao),” she said.

Mongao earlier turned himself in after being relieved from his post and placed under attached or unassigned status by the Philippine Army to give way to a thorough investigation following his alleged social media post interpreted as a withdrawal of personal support from the President.

The Philippine Army earlier said Mongao may face administrative charges and possible court-martial for alleged violations of the Articles of War, depending on the outcome of the investigation.

The Army also said the relief does not constitute a finding of guilt and that due process will be observed.

In earlier statements, Malacañang said the President is “listening and watching” developments but will not prejudge the case or interfere with the military justice process.

The Palace has repeatedly emphasized that accountability must be evidence-based and handled in accordance with the law.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines leadership has likewise reiterated its call for personnel to remain apolitical and loyal to the Constitution and the chain of command amid the controversy.