President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered the courtesy resignations of all Cabinet secretaries, citing the need to recalibrate his administration in response to public dissatisfaction following the May 2025 midterm elections.
In a press release issued by the Presidential News Desk on Wednesday morning, Marcos emphasized that the move aims to realign government with the expectations of the people.
Marcos said this is no longer business as usual. He noted the public has spoken and wants results, not politics or excuses.
According to the President, the courtesy resignations will give him room to assess each secretary’s performance and decide who will remain aligned with the administration’s priorities. He stressed that this step was not personal but purely based on performance, urgency, and alignment with national goals.
Public frustration pushes reset
Marcos made the announcement just days after midterm results showed the electorate’s waning patience with government performance. In a podcast interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna, he admitted that people were disappointed with the delivery of public services.
The President said citizens feel the government is moving too slowly and that many programs remain unfelt on the ground.
He added that while many in government have served with professionalism, the times now call for renewed alignment and a more results-driven approach.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) clarified that despite the resignations, government services will not be disrupted. A commitment to meritocracy, stability, and continuity will guide the formation of the revised leadership team.
Midterm polls fuel urgency
The courtesy resignation order comes on the heels of Eleksyon 2025, where six of the 12 winning Senate candidates were backed by Marcos under his Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas slate. Victorious candidates include Erwin Tulfo, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Pia Cayetano, Camille Villar, and Lito Lapid.
Despite these wins, Marcos said over the weekend that he had hoped for better results from the election.
He explained that the mixed outcome signals a need for stronger governance and faster execution of national projects.
The President’s public tone has grown more urgent since the midterm elections, reflecting mounting pressure to deliver tangible improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and public welfare.
Marcos ended his statement by warning against complacency. He said the government must now be driven by performance and service—not by comfort or tradition.
What’s next for the Cabinet?
Each Cabinet secretary is expected to submit their resignation letter this week. Marcos will then review their performance and determine whether to accept or reject each one.
A preliminary list of retained or replaced officials could be announced before June 12, Independence Day. Until then, departments will continue to function under their current leadership or assigned deputies.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.