A bold political maneuver by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to seek courtesy resignations from his Cabinet members has drawn praise from several senators, who view the move as a timely recalibration of the administration ahead of the 2025 national and local elections.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III welcomed the decision, calling it a “wise and strategic” step that allows the President to realign his leadership team without subjecting officials to undue speculation or controversy.
“This gives him the opportunity to reorganize without casting doubts on the integrity of those stepping aside,” Pimentel said. He also urged Marcos to prioritize appointing officials who are not eyeing elective posts in 2028, emphasizing the importance of dedication to public service over personal political aspirations.
“The country would benefit greatly from professionals who bring idealism and technical competence to the table—people who are not distracted by the lure of future elections,” Pimentel added. “Let’s have a Cabinet that is driven by results, not political calculations.”
Echoing this sentiment, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada expressed full support for Marcos’ directive, describing it as well within the President’s constitutional authority.
“As the nation’s Chief Executive, the President has every right to shape his Cabinet in a way that he believes will best serve the public interest,” Estrada said. “This move suggests a genuine effort to enhance transparency, efficiency, and public accountability in governance. I see no reason for alarm; in fact, I view it as a positive sign of reform.”
Former Senate President and Senator-elect Vicente “Tito” Sotto III also commended the initiative, calling it a “courageous and necessary action.”
Meanwhile, returning Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson encouraged the President to extend this push for reform beyond the executive branch. Lacson urged Marcos to wield his influence in Congress, particularly the House of Representatives, as deliberations over the 2026 national budget approach.
“The 2025 budget, as it stands, is deeply flawed and symptomatic of deeper issues in our system,” Lacson warned. “President Marcos must take the lead in reining in excesses and ensuring the national budget reflects the real needs of the people, not just the political interests of a few.”
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) explained that the President’s call for courtesy resignations is aimed at assessing the performance of each Cabinet department and selecting leaders who align with his renewed governance priorities. The process, the PCO said, will be guided by principles of merit, continuity, and service stability.
Despite the shake-up, government operations will remain uninterrupted, the Palace assured.
The move follows President Marcos’ recent remarks that the results of the 2025 midterm elections sent a clear message: the Filipino people are disillusioned with politics and are demanding tangible results.
“The message is loud and clear,” Marcos declared earlier this week. “This administration will not continue with business as usual. The people are tired of empty promises. They want performance, not politics—and we intend to deliver.”
As the administration gears up for a significant leadership overhaul, political observers are closely watching how this reshuffling will shape the second half of Marcos’ term and his ability to enact reforms amid growing public pressure.