CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), presided over the Change of Command Ceremony of the Western Command (WESCOM) on April 26, 2026 at the Headquarters, Tactical Operations Wing - West, Antonio Bautista Air Base, Puerto Princesa City, marking the formal assumption of Vice Admiral Alan M. Javier as the new WESCOM Commander.
Vice Admiral Javier succeeds Commodore Charles Merric A. Villanueva, who served as Acting Commander and will continue to serve as WESCOM’s Deputy Commander for External Defense Operations.
The ceremony featured the symbolic handover of command and the awarding of Commodore Villanueva in recognition of his leadership and service. In his message, General Brawner said that under Commodore Villanueva’s leadership, WESCOM sustained 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,” he said.
Addressing the incoming commander, General Brawner underscored the importance of continuity and decisive leadership. “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.
General Brawner concluded by reaffirming WESCOM’s critical role in national defense. “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.”
Photos by SSg Ambay PA/PAOAFP
