WESCOM chief relieved amid Ayungin Shoal controversy

Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos has been relieved from his post as commander of the Western Command (WESCOM) and reassigned to the General Headquarters.

His reassignment is not punitive but follows a controversy surrounding a leaked alleged transcript of a conversation between him and a Chinese diplomat concerning the Ayungin Shoal.

The Chinese embassy claimed the conversation involved a "new model" deal for the Ayungin Shoal, which Carlos denies.

Carlos confirmed the conversation took place but stated it was not about the "new model" and that he did not consent to being recorded.

The Philippine Navy stated that Carlos was rotated to GHQ to allow him time to face the "smear campaign" raised against him.

Carlos had taken a personal leave earlier this month when news broke out about the alleged agreement with a Chinese diplomat identified as "Colonel Li" to deescalate tension in the West Philippine Sea.