President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has declined the courtesy resignations of three top Cabinet officials—Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, and Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed on Wednesday.
“Yeah, yeah. Definitely declined na ‘yan,” Bersamin said during a press briefing in Malacañang, putting an end to speculation over their status in the administration.
When asked about the resignation of National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Bersamin clarified that he wasn’t the conduit for that letter. “That resignation letter was not coursed through me. That’s a personal thing. Kung ayaw ni Presidente tanggapin, it’s up to him,” he explained.
Bersamin underscored that the President’s request for courtesy resignations was not intended to be a purge but part of a broader effort to streamline governance. “As the President has said, he will not hesitate to make the necessary changes to keep the government moving forward,” he noted.
He added that the administration remains thankful for the commitment shown by officials offering to step down, assuring that “a smooth transition is being implemented to ensure continuity and stability in their respective institutions.”
