MANILA, Philippines — Professor Malou Tiquia has publicly lauded Colonel Audie Mongao, a seasoned Philippine Army officer with 34 years of service, for his courageous decision to publicly withdraw his personal support for President Marcos. Tiquia described Mongao’s action as a powerful symbol of accountability and integrity within an institution often perceived as rigid and hierarchical.

According to Tiquia, Mongao’s stand represents more than a personal political statement; it signals a serious internal reflection within the armed forces and has the potential to inspire others to openly express their convictions. For Tiquia and supporters of transparency, such acts demonstrate that courage is not limited to public office or activism—it can emerge even from within institutions where dissent is often discouraged or fraught with personal risk.

At the same time, Tiquia expressed concern for the safety of Colonel Mongao and his family, acknowledging the potential consequences of taking a public stance in a highly polarized political climate. This highlights the delicate balance between exercising conscience and navigating institutional pressures, a tension familiar in many organizations and governments around the world.

The episode invites broader reflection on the role of integrity in public service. How can individuals uphold truth and accountability while facing risks to personal safety and career stability? Mongao’s decision is a reminder that meaningful change often begins with one person willing to act, even in the face of uncertainty. As the nation observes Mongao’s example, one question emerges: can acts of personal courage within institutions spark broader cultural and systemic transformation?