NSC dismisses China’s claims against AFP chief as disinformation

A ranking official from the National Security Council (NSC) stated on Monday that there is no need to investigate Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, the AFP Western Command chief, after being implicated by China's embassy in Manila regarding a 'new model' for managing Ayungin Shoal.

NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya dismissed the Chinese narrative as an attempt to create dissent and spread disinformation among Filipinos.

Malaya emphasized that Vice Admiral Carlos is a decorated officer with extensive experience, noting his involvement in a resupply mission where he was harassed by the China Coast Guard.

The NSC official accused Beijing of engaging in cognitive domain warfare through rumors aimed at lowering military morale and undermining Philippine resolve in asserting its rights in the West Philippine Sea.

Malaya stressed that such tactics aim to weaken Filipino confidence and readiness, potentially influencing public perception about national security.

Defense officials including National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año and Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. had dismissed China's allegations, stating that any insinuation of a 'new model' agreement is a devious machination by the Chinese Embassy to divide Filipinos.