MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela has criticized former National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos following her remarks against him and her defense of Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan's controversial statements about China's military strength.

In a Facebook post, Tarriela questioned why Carlos appeared more critical of him than of China, which Philippine authorities have repeatedly accused of aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.

The exchange followed an interview in which Carlos described Tarriela as a troublemaker and suggested that he use duct tape to cover his mouth instead of continuing to speak publicly.

Carlos also defended her interpretation of Jing's October 15 remarks, maintaining that the ambassador's statement should be understood in its full context rather than automatically treated as a threat.

Jing had suggested that China could easily prevail if it chose to use military force, while emphasizing that Beijing preferred peace. The Department of Foreign Affairs, however, criticized the statement as a thinly veiled threat, prompting a diplomatic protest

Tarriela questions Carlos' national security record

Responding to Carlos, Tarriela claimed that her remarks demonstrated why she did not complete a full year as national security adviser.

He also recalled an earlier disagreement in which Carlos allegedly questioned his deployment to the West Philippine Sea to respond to China's presence in the area.

The PCG official went further, accusing Carlos of failing to take meaningful action to defend Philippine maritime rights during her tenure.

According to Tarriela, individuals who served under the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) during Carlos' leadership could attest to his criticism.

He also claimed that the government's West Philippine Sea transparency initiative gained momentum only after General Eduardo Año replaced Carlos as national security adviser.

These statements reflect Tarriela's assessment of Carlos' performance and should not be treated as independently established findings.

PCG official makes remarks about fuel assistance

Tarriela also made a sarcastic reference to fuel expenses, suggesting that Carlos might be seeking support because of rising diesel prices.

He further remarked that he could no longer provide her with fuel slips, although he did not present evidence establishing that such assistance had previously been given.

The remarks added a personal dimension to their disagreement, which began over how Philippine officials should respond to the Chinese ambassador's statements.

The dispute also comes amid continuing debate over the Philippines' approach to Beijing and the government's efforts to publicize Chinese activities in the West Philippine Sea.

The PCG has maintained that its transparency initiative is intended to inform the public about developments affecting Philippine maritime rights.

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