President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has decided to retain several key members of his economic team, citing the importance of continuing efforts to ensure financial stability and economic growth. However, the President accepted the resignations of two Cabinet members from a pool of 52 officials who had submitted their courtesy resignations.
In a press briefing, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed the retention of prominent economic figures, including Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, and Economic Planning and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan. Also retained in their posts are Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go.
“These key officials will continue to drive the administration’s economic agenda, and their expertise will be instrumental in the country’s long-term development,” said Executive Secretary Bersamin.
Bersamin also revealed that President Marcos personally communicated his unwavering trust and support to the Executive Secretary, who had also submitted his courtesy resignation. “Just this morning, he communicated to me that I have his full backing for as long as I wish to work for him,” Bersamin shared. “This gesture from the President signifies his confidence in my leadership, and I am grateful for his trust.”
In contrast, the President accepted the courtesy resignations of Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo, the Philippines’ Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga.
Ambassador Lagdameo, who is retiring after decades of service, will step down from his post effective July 31, with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo set to assume his duties beginning August 1. Secretary Manalo will be succeeded by DFA Undersecretary and former Ambassador Tess Lazaro.
Secretary Loyzaga’s resignation was accepted to allow her a short break, although the President indicated that she may be reassigned to another important post in the future. Energy Secretary Raphael “Popo” Lotilla will take over as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), while Undersecretary Sharon Garin will temporarily head the Department of Energy (DOE).
Meanwhile, Housing Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar has been appointed as Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Development, maintaining his rank of Secretary. Acuzar’s replacement, Engr. Jose Ramon Aliling, previously served as Undersecretary and led key projects such as the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program and the Pasig River Bigyan Buhay Muli (PBBM) revitalization initiative.
President Marcos had earlier directed all Cabinet members to submit their courtesy resignations as part of the ongoing review and reorganization of his administration’s leadership.
