PUERTO PRINCESA CITY — Newly installed Western Command (Wescom) chief Vice Adm. Alan Javier has pledged to boost maritime domain awareness and strengthen operations in protecting the country’s western frontier.
Javier assumed command in a ceremony Sunday at the Tactical Operations Wing West, replacing Commodore Charles Meric Villanueva, who served in an acting capacity following the retirement of Vice Adm. Alfonso Torres Jr. in February.
In his speech, Javier outlined key priorities, including enhanced information sharing, stronger interoperability with partners, and confidence-building measures to promote stability and prevent miscalculations.
“Superior awareness enables decisive action,” he said, adding that Wescom will also uphold maritime rules and norms to ensure order and collective security.
A former commander of Naval Forces West, Javier said he is familiar with the operational area but acknowledged growing challenges, citing a “complex and dynamic” security environment requiring constant vigilance.
AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who presided over the ceremony, urged Javier to sustain the country’s presence in the western frontier and strengthen defense capabilities.
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“You assume command at a time when expectations are high… Sustain our presence, build capability, and lead your people well,” Brawner said./coa
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