Vice Adm Carlos reassigned from WESCOM amid China call allegations

Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos has been reassigned from his position as commander of the Western Command (WESCOM) and is now under the supervision of the General Headquarters' Support Command at Camp Aguinaldo.

Carlos was relieved of his duties due to allegations stemming from a phone conversation with a Chinese diplomat, but Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año have denied any involvement in an agreement with China regarding Ayungin Shoal.

During a Senate hearing on Wednesday, Carlos confirmed receiving the call but denied entering into any binding agreements that would compromise Philippine national interests or involving a 'new model' deal for Ayungin Shoal.

AFP public affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad stated in a press conference that Carlos will be under the guidance of the Office of the Chief of Staff, and his reassignment is not a punitive action.

The situation at Ayungin Shoal remains contentious with China blocking resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre stationed there since 1999.