Espinosa was originally due to retire in August but was forced into early retirement by controversies, including alleged overpricing of helmets for the elite Marine Corps.
Sources at Camp Aguinaldo said Espinosa relinquished his post at the JCSC on March 19 to his deputy, Col. Manolo Diamante, who will take over as JCSC commandant in an acting capacity.
The sources said Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Teodosio, who has been on "floating" status since he was relieved as commanding general of the 1st Marine Brigade late last year, may eventually be designated as JCSC commandant.
Armed Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Generoso Senga confirmed that Espinosa has silently stepped down as JCSC head, but could not say if he applied for early retirement.
Espinosa, who was relieved as commander of the Southern Command based in Zamboanga City early last year for alleged involvement in smuggling activities, was also implicated in the alleged anomalous procurement of P3.9 million worth of Kevlar helmets for the Marines.
President Arroyo indicated earlier that the MECO post was "his for the asking" as a reward for his role in the people power II that catapulted her to the presidency last Jan. 20.
Espinosa was reportedly the highest ranking military officer who worked with the then united opposition headed by Lakas-NUCD in plotting the ouster of former President Joseph Estrada. – Paolo Romero