‘Higher-ups’ ordered Navy chief Mercado’s ouster —AFP spokesman

"Higher authorities" have ordered the relief of Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado, a military spokesperson said Tuesday.

Colonel Edgard Arevalo, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said Mercado has been replaced by Rear Admiral Roberto Empedrad.

Arevalo said the order was issued by AFP chief General Rey Leonardo Guerrero upon instructions from higher authorities.

He declined to identify which office recommended Mercado's relief and the reason behind it.

"The reason for this change of command will be explained in due time," Arevalo said.

Captain Lued Lincuna, director of the Naval Public Affairs Office, said the Navy, as a professional organization, always follows a lawful order from the chain of command.

“With the change of command ceremony this morning, the Philippine Navy extends its gratitude to Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S. Mercado AFP, for his dedicated service rendered as the Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy,” he said.

Lincuna said he was not privy to the reason behind the sudden relief of Mercado.

“I defer your questions to higher authories. But rest assured the Philippine Navy has a lot of competent and qualified leaders to assume as Flag Officer in Command, Philippine Navy,” he said.

He said the Navy welcomes and honors Empedrad, former deputy chief of staff for retirees and reservists affairs, as their acting chief.

The order for the relief of Mercado became effective today, December 19.

“As I've said before, as a professional organization we will support the newly installed Acting FOIC, PN. Going forward, the Philippine Navy must and will continue to perform our constitutional mandate as the protector of the people and the state,” he said. —ALG, GMA News