Brawner to new WESCOM chief: Sustain credible, steady presence in West PH Sea

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Sunday told the new commander of the AFP’s Western Command (WESCOM) to sustain the military’s credible and steady presence in the West Philippine Sea.

In a statement, the AFP said Brawner presided over the change of command ceremony at the Antonio Bautista Air Base in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, which marked the formal assumption of Vice Admiral Alan Javier as the new WESCOM commander.

Javier succeeded Commodore Charles Merric Villanueva, who served as acting commander. Villanueva will continue to serve as WESCOM’s deputy commander for external defense operations.

In his speech, Brawner highlighted the importance of continuity and decisive leadership as Javier takes over WESCOM’s helm.

“To Vice Admiral Alan M. Javier, you come into this role with experience that is both operational and strategic. Your task is clear: sustain presence, strengthen deterrence, build capability, and lead your people well,” he said.

He also credited Villanueva for ensuring that WESCOM had a credible and steady presence in the West Philippine Sea.

“Maritime and sovereignty patrols were carried out with discipline and purpose. Our domain awareness improved. Our posture remained firm – without escalation, without compromise. The work you have done has strengthened our position, not just operationally but institutionally,” Brawner said.

He reaffirmed WESCOM’s critical role in national defense, stressing that the mission does not change even with a new leader in charge.

“Leadership has changed, but the mission has not. Support your commander and do your part. Stay disciplined and focused because what you do here matters – to our fishermen, to our trade routes, and to our future as a maritime nation,” Brawner added. — JMA, GMA News