President Marcos Cabinet Revamp Progresses Rapidly
President Marcos is moving swiftly with his Cabinet revamp, assuring the public that the process is being handled efficiently. This rapid reshuffling aims to prevent inefficiency and divisiveness within his administration, sources familiar with the matter reveal. The call for a quick recalibration comes after Senator-elect Panfilo Lacson urged the President to act promptly.
Palace communications officials emphasized that the President is fully aware of his actions and knows how to accelerate the process. As one official put it, “Alam po ng Pangulo ang kaniyang ginagawa, alam niya po kung paano mapabilis at sabi nga rin po ni Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, sa trabahong ito dapat mas mabilis – kung kailangan i-deliver ang tinapay, masarap na tinapay ang dapat na i-deliver.”
This means the public can expect a speedy evaluation and adjustment of Cabinet members, secretaries, and heads of agencies.
Early Moves in the Cabinet Reshuffle
Following President Marcos’ request for courtesy resignations from all Cabinet members, several decisions have already been made. Out of the 52 pending resignations, nine Cabinet officials have been retained, three have been accepted, and three secretaries have been reassigned to different agencies.
For example, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and key economic officials such as Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman remain in their posts. Meanwhile, the resignation of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) secretary, Maria Antonia Loyzaga, was accepted.
To fill that gap, the President appointed Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla to lead the DENR. Jerry Acuzar, the Human Settlements and Urban Development secretary, was reassigned as Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Development. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo was reappointed as the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
Further Changes and Appointments
To replace the outgoing DFA Secretary, Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations Ma. Theresa Lazaro will take over. Meanwhile, former DHSUD undersecretary Ramon Aliling will replace Jerry Acuzar.
On May 29, additional Cabinet members were retained, including Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, and Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro. Meanwhile, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra resigned and was succeeded by University of the Philippines College of Law Dean Darlene Berberabe.
Moreover, the Commission on Higher Education Chair J. Prospero De Vera III stepped down and will be replaced by CHED Commissioner Shirley Agrupis.
Outlook on the Cabinet Revamp
Reports indicate that President Marcos is committed to ensuring his Cabinet operates efficiently and cohesively. The quick pace of the reshuffle reflects his administration’s focus on delivering effective governance. Observers note that this strategic move aims to strengthen government functions and improve service delivery.
With ongoing evaluations and appointments, the public can expect further announcements soon as the President continues to refine his leadership team.
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