Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. confirmed on Thursday that he has submitted his courtesy resignation in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ‘s directive for a Cabinet revamp, following the outcome of the recent midterm elections.
“The President has spoken. It’s clear that he seeks the flexibility to respond to the people’s clamor as conveyed in the recent midterm polls,” Tiu Laurel stated, underscoring his support for the administration’s efforts to recalibrate its priorities and governance approach.
Tiu Laurel emphasized that the move aligns with the principles of accountability and responsiveness within the executive branch. “As members of his official family, we are called to support his efforts to recalibrate and move forward with renewed focus,” he said.
While awaiting the President’s decision on his continued tenure, the Agriculture chief assured stakeholders of ongoing service and program continuity. “I will continue to serve the Department of Agriculture and its stakeholders to the best of my abilities,” he said, citing his commitment to fiscal stability in the agriculture sector and the sustained rollout of key initiatives aimed at food security and rural development.
Analysts note that any transition within the Department of Agriculture could have significant implications for the administration’s fiscal policy and food programs, particularly as the agency manages major subsidies and infrastructure projects critical to inflation control and rural livelihoods.
President Marcos’ move to request courtesy resignations from Cabinet members is seen as a strategic pivot to strengthen governance amid evolving public expectations and policy demands.
Also submitting their courtesy resignations were Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda. “We serve at the pleasure of the President, and of the people,” said Dizon, while Aguda affirmed, “We stand by the President… The DICT will continue to deliver his mandate for the Filipino people.”
President Marcos’ call for resignations is viewed as a strategic pivot intended to reinforce his administration’s alignment with shifting public expectations and to streamline policy execution following the political signal sent by the midterm results. The move marks a significant moment in the administration’s internal management and could reshape the composition and focus of the executive branch in the months ahead.
