In a show of solidarity and respect for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s leadership, several key Cabinet members — including Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman — have tendered their courtesy resignations as the administration signals a strategic recalibration in response to recent public sentiment.
The resignations come in the wake of President Marcos’ call for a “bold reset” of his official family, following the outcome of the midterm elections which many observers view as a reflection of the people’s evolving expectations. In his message, Marcos emphasized the need for flexibility, fresh energy, and renewed focus to better serve the nation.
Secretary Laurel echoed this vision, stating, “The President has spoken, and it’s clear he seeks the freedom to act decisively in response to the people’s voice. As part of his official family, I have submitted my courtesy resignation and now leave it to his good judgment whether I should continue in my post. Until then, I will continue to serve the Department of Agriculture with dedication, guided by a commitment to public service and the welfare of the Filipino people.”
Budget Secretary Pangandaman expressed her full support for the President’s course correction:
“We all serve at the pleasure of the President. I fully support his decisions, knowing they are made in the best interest of the Filipino people.”
Finance Secretary Recto added that the President’s decision reflects a strong commitment to prioritizing national interest amid growing domestic and global challenges:
“The President carries the heavy burden of leading the country through uncertain times. I have submitted my resignation without delay or reservation, respecting his vision to place the Filipino people at the heart of governance.”
The collective gesture from these senior officials underscores the administration’s effort to align itself more closely with the public pulse while empowering the President to recalibrate his team for the next chapter of national leadership.