MANILA – Vice Admiral Alan Javier has officially taken command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Command (Wescom), replacing Commodore Charles Merric Villanueva, the AFP announced.
The leadership transition was formalized during a ceremony presided over by AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. on Sunday at Antonio Bautista Air Base in Puerto Princesa City.
Villanueva had been serving in an acting capacity after the retirement of former Wescom chief Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres Jr. earlier this year. He will now continue serving as deputy commander for external defense operations.
During the ceremony, Villanueva was honored for his service, particularly for maintaining a stable and credible presence in the West Philippine Sea. The AFP noted that operations under his leadership were carried out with discipline, enhancing maritime awareness while avoiding unnecessary escalation.
Brawner highlighted that the outgoing commander’s leadership contributed to strengthening both the operational readiness and institutional foundation of Wescom.
As Javier steps into his new role, Brawner called on him to build on these gains by ensuring sustained operations, reinforcing deterrence, and further improving military capabilities.
In a related development, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad will remain as AFP spokesperson for West Philippine Sea issues despite reaching mandatory retirement age.
The Philippine Navy confirmed that Trinidad will continue his duties as a reservist, recognizing his role in articulating the military’s stance on maritime matters.
Trinidad, a former Naval Inspector General, was praised for his professionalism and his contribution to public communication and national security advocacy.
ia/xf
