President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is undertaking a major cabinet reshuffle, leaving the nation wondering which officials will retain their positions and who will be replaced. The shake-up promises significant changes in the administration’s approach to governance.

Recto Stays: Marcos Doubles Down on Economic Team Amidst Cabinet Reshuffle

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto’s position has been reaffirmed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., signaling a vote of confidence in the Department of Finance (DOF)’s leadership and its crucial role in the nation’s economic recovery. Recto, who submitted a courtesy resignation as part of a wider cabinet review, will remain at the helm, promising accelerated results and internal reform.

The President’s decision, announced by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, follows a wave of support for Recto from business leaders and academics who lauded his technocratic approach and commitment to fiscal stability. Bersamin highlighted Recto’s immediate and impactful contributions since joining the administration mid-term, emphasizing his proactive and results-oriented leadership. “Secretary Recto, from day one… he’s always been about action,” Bersamin stated.

Recto himself expressed gratitude for the continued trust, viewing the retention not merely as a vote of confidence, but as a “marching order” to intensify efforts. He pledged to “push harder and deliver results faster,” outlining plans for internal recalibration within the DOF to better align with the administration’s economic priorities and ensure that “every Filipino family feels the progress,” echoing President Marcos Jr.’s own pronouncements.

This decision marks a significant development in the ongoing cabinet reshuffle initiated by President Marcos Jr. While the review aimed to ensure alignment with the administration’s goals, particularly in economic governance, the retention of Recto and four other key economic managers underscores their vital role in the country’s ongoing economic recovery. The move suggests a strategic focus on maintaining continuity and expertise within the crucial economic management sector. Recto’s commitment to inclusive growth, coupled with the administration’s renewed confidence, sets the stage for potentially accelerated economic reforms in the months to come.

From Power Outages to Environmental Stewardship: Lotilla’s Unexpected Transition to DENR

In a move that has sparked considerable online buzz, Raphael Lotilla, the Energy Secretary whose recent press conference was ironically interrupted by a power outage, has been appointed as the new Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The announcement, made by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Friday, May 23rd, adds another layer of intrigue to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s ongoing Cabinet reshuffle.

The appointment comes as a surprise, given the recent viral moment that saw Lotilla assuring the public of ample energy supplies only to be immediately contradicted by a widespread power failure. The incident, widely circulated on social media, drew significant criticism, with many highlighting the stark irony of the situation. While the incident undoubtedly cast a shadow on his tenure at the Department of Energy (DOE), President Marcos Jr.’s decision to appoint him to the DENR suggests a confidence in Lotilla’s broader capabilities and experience.

Lotilla’s career boasts a long history in public service, including a previous stint as Energy Secretary under the Arroyo administration. His reappointment by President Marcos Jr. in 2022 marked a return to a sector where he has established a reputation for driving ambitious policy changes. During his recent tenure at the DOE, Lotilla spearheaded efforts to accelerate the country’s energy transition, championing renewable energy investments and advocating for reforms to ease foreign ownership restrictions in the power sector. These efforts, while lauded by some, have also faced challenges.

His time at the DOE was not without its controversies. Lotilla faced persistent criticism regarding recurring power supply issues, particularly in Luzon, and endured intense scrutiny during several congressional hearings. These hearings focused on delays in crucial energy infrastructure development and concerns about the fragility of the nation’s power grid. These criticisms highlight the complexities of navigating the energy sector, a sector often characterized by competing interests and infrastructure challenges.

Lotilla’s transition to the DENR replaces Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, whose resignation was accepted as part of the President’s request for courtesy resignations from all Cabinet-level officials. This move raises questions about the administration’s strategic thinking behind the appointment. While Lotilla’s experience in navigating complex policy landscapes and managing large-scale projects is undeniable, his background in energy may seem an unconventional fit for the environmental portfolio.

The appointment presents a fascinating juxtaposition: a figure associated with the energy sector, often criticized for its environmental impact, now tasked with overseeing the country’s environmental protection efforts. This transition invites speculation about the administration’s priorities and its approach to balancing economic development with environmental sustainability. Lotilla’s success in this new role will depend heavily on his ability to adapt his skills and experience to the unique challenges presented by the DENR, and to effectively address the diverse concerns of environmental advocates and stakeholders. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this unexpected appointment proves to be a stroke of genius or a significant misstep. The nation watches with bated breath.

President Marcos Jr. Reshuffles Cabinet: Environment Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga Replaced by Energy Chief Raphael Lotilla

In a significant move reshaping his administration, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has replaced Environment Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga with Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla as part of a broader Cabinet reshuffle. This transition underscores the President’s commitment to optimizing his Cabinet’s performance and recalibrating his administration’s priorities.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin announced Yulo-Loyzaga’s departure on May 23 during a press briefing, attributing the change to her frequent international travels and what he described as a lackluster performance.

“There are no corruption allegations against her. But there is a perception that she was often out of the country. Huwag na natin siyang husgahan,” Bersamin said, urging the public to refrain from harsh judgments.

The issue of Yulo-Loyzaga’s travels had been a point of contention, with Senator Raffy Tulfo earlier criticizing the DENR Chief for what he described as “excessive foreign travel.” This allegedly resulted in the Department’s travel budget swelling to P1.1 billion. Despite these concerns, Bersamin clarified that Yulo-Loyzaga’s exit was amicable and partly motivated by her expressed desire to take a break from government service.

Raphael Lotilla, who has led the Department of Energy since Marcos Jr. took office in 2022, will now oversee the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Lotilla’s appointment comes after a viral incident that brought him to public attention—a power outage ironically disrupted his briefing last week where he assured the nation of stable energy supply.

Lotilla’s transfer signifies a strategic reassignment aimed at leveraging his leadership to further DENR’s environmental protection and climate resilience goals. Observers see this move as a challenge to balance his expertise in energy policy with the pressing demands of environmental stewardship.

This reshuffle follows President Marcos Jr.’s directive on May 22 requiring all Cabinet members to submit courtesy resignations. The initiative is part of a comprehensive performance review designed to realign the administration’s objectives.

Yulo-Loyzaga, who served as DENR Secretary since the President’s inauguration in 2022, spearheaded critical initiatives on climate resilience and environmental protection. Her tenure, though marked by some controversies, was pivotal in advancing discussions on sustainable development.

Bersamin hinted that Yulo-Loyzaga might still be considered for another role in the government in the future. “She has much to offer, and we value her expertise,” he remarked.

As Lotilla assumes his new role, expectations are high. Environmental groups and stakeholders are closely watching how this transition will impact DENR’s ongoing programs and the nation’s broader environmental agenda.

This Cabinet reshuffle is one of the most notable since Marcos Jr. took office, reflecting his intent to drive efficiency and focus within his administration. The changes signal a renewed emphasis on performance and accountability, laying the groundwork for the administration’s next phase.

Lucas Bersamin to Remain as Executive Secretary Amid Cabinet Reshuffle Following Midterm Results

In a move underscoring stability amid sweeping administrative changes, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin announced on Friday, May 23, that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has retained him in his influential role, rejecting his courtesy resignation.

Bersamin, often referred to as the “Little President” for his role as a central figure in managing the Office of the President, confirmed during a press conference that he would remain a top Cabinet official despite rumors of his potential replacement.

This decision comes in the wake of Marcos Jr.’s directive for all Cabinet members to tender their resignations, a strategy widely interpreted as a response to the administration’s perceived shortcomings in the recently concluded midterm elections. The elections saw a shift in public sentiment, with opposition forces gaining ground, pressuring the administration to recalibrate its governance approach.

Key Cabinet Members Retained
Bersamin also revealed that five other key officials were asked to stay, solidifying the president’s emphasis on maintaining a robust economic team amidst ongoing challenges:

Ma. Cristina Roque – Secretary of Trade and Industry
Ralph Recto – Secretary of Finance
Arsenio Balisacan – Secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority
Amenah Pangandaman – Secretary of Budget and Management
Frederick Go – Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs

“These individuals are integral to the administration’s economic strategy,” Bersamin noted, emphasizing their collective role in addressing the nation’s financial and economic hurdles.

Speculation and Stability
Prior to the announcement, rumors swirled about Bersamin’s potential exit, with prominent names such as former Executive Secretary Jojo Ochoa, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla being touted as possible successors. These speculations were fueled by criticisms directed at the Office of the Executive Secretary, particularly regarding alleged questionable hires and oversight issues.

However, the president’s decision to retain Bersamin sends a clear message of trust and continuity. By keeping him in the Cabinet, Marcos Jr. signals his confidence in Bersamin’s leadership and ability to steer the administration through this transitional period.
The midterm elections served as a barometer of public sentiment, with many citizens expressing dissatisfaction over the government’s handling of pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, and social services. Analysts view the president’s call for mass resignations as an opportunity to reset and realign his team with the priorities of the Filipino people.

“The president’s choices reflect his intent to prioritize economic recovery and public trust,” political analyst Maria de la Cruz said. “Retaining seasoned leaders like Bersamin and others demonstrates a commitment to continuity amidst change.”
As Marcos Jr. enters the second half of his term, the retention of Bersamin and other Cabinet members suggests a recalibrated focus on delivering results and meeting public expectations. With a renewed mandate from the president, these officials are now tasked with addressing the challenges that have defined the first half of the administration and ensuring a more responsive government in the years to come.

The coming months will test whether these decisions can translate into tangible progress for the Filipino people.