Philippines replaces its military commander for disputed waters

Vice-Admiral Alberto Carlos is being replaced as chief of the Western Command on Palawan island. - PHOTO: AFP

MANILA (AFP): The Philippine military has announced that it has replaced a key commander overseeing forces in the South China Sea, including Filipino troops garrisoned on a disputed reef.

Rear Admiral Alfonso Torres Jr will replace Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos as chief of the Western Command on Palawan island, which is the closest Philippine landmass to the hotly contested Spratly Islands.