Marcos urges Cabinet resignations in post-election reset: ‘Time for comfort zones is over’

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has asked all Cabinet secretaries to tender their courtesy resignations as he seeks to realign his administration’s priorities and respond more effectively to public expectations following the results of the recent elections.

“This is not business as usual,” Marcos said in a statement released by the Presidential News Desk. He emphasized that the move aims to refocus government efforts toward performance and urgency. “The people have spoken, and they expect results — not politics, not excuses. We hear them, and we will act.”

According to the President, this call for resignations will allow a thorough evaluation of each department’s leadership. He assured that those who have consistently delivered results would be acknowledged. “This is not about personalities — it’s about performance, alignment, and urgency,” he noted.

Marcos added that while many officials have shown dedication, the evolving needs of the country demand faster execution and a renewed commitment to results. “The time for comfort zones is over,” he warned.

Despite the shake-up, government operations are expected to continue without disruption. The administration will prioritize stability and meritocracy as it restructures its leadership.

In his recent podcast episode, Marcos acknowledged public disappointment with the pace of government services. He reflected on his decision to prioritize large-scale, long-term projects like those in tourism, healthcare, and transportation, which have yet to produce immediate, tangible outcomes for many Filipinos.

“I said we need to change that. So I looked at the big, difficult projects that will have long-term effects—those are the ones we should work on,” Marcos explained. However, he also recognized that such projects take time and may not meet the public’s immediate needs.

He also addressed concerns that some officials may have taken his perceived leniency as an invitation for misconduct. “I want to be respected, but maybe fear is better,” Marcos said, hinting at a shift toward firmer leadership.

While no specific reason was given for the timing of the sweeping call for resignations, the President made it clear that this marks a turning point — a push to move away from politics and toward tangible service delivery.