Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero expressed strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent move to demand courtesy resignations from members of his Cabinet, framing it as a vital first step toward realigning the national government with the public’s needs and expectations.
Earlier this week, President Marcos called for a shift away from political distractions and toward genuine service to the Filipino people. In response, Escudero welcomed what he described as a “course correction,” acknowledging the President’s recognition of public frustration and his willingness to take responsibility by initiating reforms within his official family.
“Calling for the courtesy resignations of his official family is a good start. It highlights the need for the entire bureaucracy to recalibrate and align government initiatives with the expectations of our people,” Escudero said. “When government fails to meet these expectations, it is the public who suffers—and I commend the President for taking immediate action.”
Escudero likened the reshuffle to a “mid-game substitution,” saying the move signals a performance-based reassessment of leadership within the executive branch. However, he emphasized that the changes should not stop with Cabinet officials alone.
“The President cannot implement government programs by himself; kailangan niya ng mapagkakatiwalaang katulong, dapat meron siyang matinong katuwang,” Escudero stated. He also urged the President to take a hard look within his political circle and distance himself from allies whose actions have undermined the administration’s credibility.
“Our countrymen made it clear through their ballots—they want more than just a personnel adjustment. The President’s course correction must include his entire political house, starting with his backyard,” Escudero added. “He must distance himself from reckless allies who squandered his goodwill and burned through his political capital for selfish ends.”
While recognizing the importance of this initial step, Escudero called for sustained collaboration and a broader vision of reform. “Much more still needs to be done. Simula pa lamang ito. Ang mahalaga ngayon ay magtulungan tayong lahat—hindi para sa kapakanan ng anumang partido o politiko, kundi para sa kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan.”
Escudero’s remarks underscore growing calls for accountability and reform across all levels of government as public sentiment increasingly demands results over rhetoric.
